Newbie Question

david1clark · #1 02-01-2005, 02:34 PM

I am new to woodcarving and have been cutting my blanks out using hand tools in a not very precise manner meaning that the side that I start cutting on is perfect while the other side is usually way off. I have been considering the purchase of a power saw of some sort.

Being a neophyte to woodcarving and woodworking in general I have looked at the various power saws such as Band Saws, Table Saws, Miter Saws, Scroll Saws, etc and am left with no idea which one would fit the needs of a woodcarver.

My budget is rather small, (Otherwise, I would buy one of each

) but I would like to make a purchase that would make the cuts more precise and faster! Any input would by much appreciated!

David

BobD · #2 02-01-2005, 02:51 PM

David,

It depends on the size of the carvings you want to do; for small carvings, I use a scroll saw because it gives me more control. But not all carvings fit on a scroll saw, so at that point, you need to use a band saw.

A table saw and miter saw really are not what you want...they both cut in straight lines and there isn't much of that in carving (unless you are cutting frames doing some fancy relief or chip carving).

Hope this helps!

Bob Duncan
Wood Carving Illustrated

Mitchell · #3 02-01-2005, 02:59 PM

My first real power tool was a band saw. This is (IMO) a must for carving.

If at all possible, buy a 14" bandsaw on a stand. Try to stay away from anything smaller than 12" and anything that sits on a bench top.

The smaller throat depth (not sure if that is the correct term) will prevent you from crosscutting longer blanks. The bench top units are not GENERALLY as well made as the "larger" units.

I recommend also that you read the manual and learn how to adjust the blade. Also, IMMEDIATELY purchase new blades. You will always need a spare and the one's that come with the machine are not very good. A good quality blade that runs with lower tension is well worth the extra money.

Mitch

sheltiecarver · #4 02-01-2005, 03:01 PM

Hi,
First of all, welcome, David, to the wonderful world of carving! Now, to your saw. Unless you're doing really really big stuff, forget the chop saw (miter saw, compound miter saw, sliding compound miter saw) and the table saw. Save them for later, or maybe never. That leavesthe band saw and the scroll saw. There are decent saws out there for less than $200 that will beat the socks off cutting by hand. Usually carvers get more use from a band saw, since it will cut thicker wood (maybe 4 or 5 inches, even on a small bandsaw, like the little 9" Delta or the Ryobi). The 3 wheel ones are not worth what they cost, usually. Bandsaw is also a lot faster than a scroll saw. If your budget and your shop space will allow, look at a 14" bandsaw, like maybe the Grizzley. If you are doing mainly small stuff, you might enjoy the scroll saw. It is extremely easy to use and very safe, and you can cut a lot of detail in your carving blanks. The thickest you can cut is usually about 2" or maybe a bit more. On wood that thick, unless your technique is a lot better than mine, the top will look good, and the bottom will not be quite the same. It is also a lot slower, but is pretty compact if space is a problem. In the cheaper ones, maybe the Delta variable speed is pretty good for under $200. For nearer to $400 the Dewalt comes highly recommended. I have cut out literally hundreds of carving blanks with both saws, and either will serve you well. If I have a choice I use the scroll saw, because anything you cut off saves that much time carving, so you can enjoy carving the details. Let us know what you decide, and happy carving! Sandy

Nancy_G · #5 02-01-2005, 04:36 PM

Just my two cents -- try to find the money for a 14" band saw, if possible.
You can cut out small things on it (no interior cuts) but you can't cut large things on a scroll saw.

Or check at the local high school.... it's "possible" that they will let you use their band saw. A pleasant neighbor might too.

Whatever you decide, David -- we're happy you've joined us. welcome

tbox61 · #6 02-01-2005, 04:40 PM

David,

That is a great question. I would echo SheltieCarver's comments. I own the 14" Grizzly band saw and it is great. For the money, (around $350 delivered), it is a great piece of machinery. The Delta band saw is more pricey, but not built as well as the Grizzly.

One bit of advice when cutting out blanks. Saw out the side profile first, leaving some wood on the back of the carving to give it stability when sawing the front. Don't cut all the way through on the profile cuts, as this will greatly help when sawing the front profile.

I try to have my basic blank block very close to the dimensions of the carving, usually I pre-saw to make sure the pattern just fits on the side and front, as well as the length of the pattern. It is much easier to transfer the pattern when there is very little room left from side to side and top to bottom.

I have found this makes me a very consistent blank.

Have fun,
Tim

Kenny_S · #7 02-01-2005, 05:25 PM

I use a scroll saw, bandsaw and a table saw. Each have the purposes. Started with a bench 9" band saw and still have it but if you can swing it a 14" is the way to go. As it has been posted, you can cut out smaller blanks on a 14" bandsaw. Most of the smaller blank are cut on my scroll saw. Since I do woodwork also fret work I have all three and a sliding compound Miter. Tel the truth, The 10" slinding compound gets a lot of use.

Might try www.grizzly.com or

www.toolking.com to compare prices. Which brand of saw to buy? Well that is up to the individual. Most are good but some better than others. I would stay away from the small Bandsaws as you will want a bigger and better one latter on and or you will not like what yopu have as it isn't big enough to handle what you want.

JMHO.

Hi_Ho_Sliver · #8 02-01-2005, 08:15 PM

I would echo what is here...but support I think the bandsaw first, I have a DeWalt scrollsaw and a Ridgid bandsaw and use both, but really use the bandsaw most of anything in the shop next to the power chop saw.....as to brand....if I didn't have the Ridgid....I would get the grizzly G0555 I think is the number......much better price than my Ridgid!

david1clark · #9 02-01-2005, 10:09 PM

Thanks for the information everyone! I have been leaning towards either the bandsaw or the scrollsaw. I was thinking about buying the smaller 9' bandsaws but I can see the logic behind going ahead and spending a little more for the 14' bandsaw. I will have to put some more thought to it! I could prolly afford the 9' now but the 14' will have to wait if that is what I decide.

I would really like to get started carving again, I could use the stress relief that comes with it! I cant seem to cut a straight line with hand tools and end up messing up the blank so I will have to buy something soon!

David

jamesfa · #10 02-01-2005, 10:41 PM

david1clark-i think you are probably right in waiting to get the machine which will do more for you.
in the meantime Nancy G suggestions may be an alternative till you get the machine you want you my also check out any carving clubs,and senior centers.
I gave all my tools to my son-in law when we started RVing,but joined a senior center ($25.00/yr)and they have a complete woodworking shop.and i will quite frequently cut out blanks for people that can't get to the center,but still enjoy carving.

Frank