korssågningens

Korssågningen, or scroll sawing, is a woodworking technique for cutting intricate curves and enclosed shapes in wood and other thin materials. A narrow-blade saw mounted in a frame provides precise control, enabling detailed fretwork, lace-like patterns, and decorative cutouts. The term is used in Swedish to refer to the technique and its results.

Tools and blades: The main tool is a scroll saw with adjustable speed and blade tension. Blades vary in teeth per inch (TPI); high-TPI blades yield finer details, while lower-TPI blades cut faster. To cut interior shapes, a starting hole is drilled to remove waste.

Techniques: Patterns are transferred to the material, and interior cuts are created by drilling entry holes. Relief cuts help navigate tight curves. The blade generally feeds the work slowly with the grain, and holding-down devices and a stable work surface improve accuracy. Finishing includes sanding and sealing.

Materials and applications: Wood—especially soft woods like basswood—and thin plastics are common, with thinner metals possible under appropriate blades. Korssågningen produces decorative panels, fretwork figures, jigsaw-like puzzles, ornaments, inlays, and architectural details.

History and context: The craft developed with the spread of fretsaws and scroll saws in the 19th century, fostering precise decorative woodworking. In Sweden, korssågningen has been part of folk craft and small-scale ornament production.

Safety: Use eye protection, dust protection, and clamps. Ensure correct blade tension and alignment; keep fingers away from the blade; operate at appropriate speeds, and unplug the saw when changing blades.