BladeTension

[Peter Young]

I'm new to scrolling and wondering how to tell if I have enough tension on my blade because I can't keep it cutting on the line,it keeps running off to the side.I have a new 16" GMC with pin type blade.Any help will be appreciated.

[oges]

This is mostly caused by the stamping of the blade leaving a burr on the blade, it makes it run 'off line'. If you arent happy about allowing for this you could probably try soem PGT (precision ground tooth) blades but am not sure if they are available in the pinned blade variety

Do you have the brand new GMC variable saw with the laser? I thought that one accepted pinless blades, but I guess thats not the one you have.

[Iain]

And PGT's have a nasty habit of following grain, just a case of experience and perserverance.
Pluck the blade and you will get a nice resonant note, that is generally tight enough, if it breaks you've gone too far ;)
Generally tighten until you feel a reasonable amount of resistance and it should be right.

[Tikki]

Hi Peter and welcome to the forum

I started scrolling some years ago with a pinned blade machine and found by running a sharpening stone along the edge of the blade (righthand side) whilst in the saw and tensioned, most of the burring was removed enabling easier handling. However, keep in mind this side of the blade can also be used "like sandpaper" to smooth out a crooked/inaccurate cut, and it will become second nature after you have a little cutting experience to hold the timber to compensate for this "wander".
Here's a couple of websites that have some tips that may be helpful to you, also some info on blades and tensioning.
http://www.scrollit.com/Scroll%20Saw%20Patterns.htm
http://www.mikesworkshop.com/
If you are interested in joining a scrollers group, South Oz Scrollers meets on a Saturday and a Monday once per month at Thebarton High School. Find all the details and contacts here http://www.woodgroupsa.org.au/ Great group, lots of friendly assistance.
Happy scrolling :)
Cheers
Tikki