I'm trying to decide between a scroll saw and a band saw for woodworking projects. I want to make rounded cuts, like on the corners of tables or notches in stools. I already have a table saw, miter saw, circular saw, jigsaw, and router, and my budget is around $300. What do you think is the best tool for these tasks, and what other types of cuts could I achieve with either choice?
3 Answers
If you're looking for versatility in your shop, go with the band saw. It's great for a variety of tasks like ripping, resawing, and cutting joinery. If you need to cut fine curves for things like puzzle pieces or detailed marquetry, then the scroll saw is ideal. But for furniture-making, like rounded corners, the band saw is definitely the more useful option.
Thanks for the insight! Sounds like the band saw might be the way to go.
I'd recommend a band saw for your needs. Cutting stool tops on a scroll saw would be way too time-consuming. As the others said, scroll saws are more about creating intricate designs, so for larger furniture projects, the band saw is just easier.
Another option could be to invest more in your router and pick up some template accessories. A band saw would help in cutting excess material, but the router can really create the rounded edges you're after. However, if you really want one of the two, the band saw is super handy for furniture.
I think that’s a great idea! I’ve been looking into router accessories myself.
Good point! I might end up focusing on router accessories for now.
Couldn’t agree more! Band saws are much more efficient for larger projects.