Essential Tools

Tool Purpose
Scroll Saw The primary tool for fretwork. It has a fine blade that allows for intricate cuts.
Fret Saw A hand-powered saw that can also be used for fretwork.
Drill For making starter holes for interior cuts.
Sandpaper For smoothing the edges of the cut design.

Scroll Saw Blade Types

Blade Type Use
Standard Tooth Good for general purpose cutting.
Skip-Tooth Has a gap between teeth, which helps clear sawdust.
Reverse-Tooth Has teeth pointing up at the bottom of the blade, which reduces tear-out on the underside of the wood.
Spiral Blade Can cut in any direction without turning the workpiece.

The Fretwork Process

Step # Action Notes
1 Choose a pattern and transfer it to the wood. Use carbon paper or a spray adhesive.
2 Drill starter holes for all interior cuts. The hole should be large enough for your blade to pass through.
3 Make the interior cuts first. Thread the blade through a starter hole and re-attach it to the saw.
4 Make the exterior cuts. Carefully follow the lines of your pattern.
5 Sand the finished piece. Use small files or sandpaper to smooth all the edges.