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10 Best Scroll Saw For Beginners 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT Scroll Saw, 1.3 Amp, 20 in Steel Blade, With Variable-Speed Trigger, For Precise Cuts (DW788)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,382
Variable Speed
Blade Tensioning
Dust Blower and Collection

Most important from
1634 reviews

Variable Speed
The variable speed control is straightforward to use, allowing for seamless adjustments to suit different materials.
Blade Tensioning
The blade changing process is incredibly easy and hassle-free, making it a standout feature for beginners.
Dust Blower and Collection
The blower is highly effective and can be positioned exactly where needed, ensuring a clear view of the cutting line.

The DEWALT Scroll Saw (DW788) is a solid choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of scroll sawing. One of its standout features is the double parallel-link arm design, which significantly reduces vibration and noise, making it easier for new users to make precise cuts without being overwhelmed by the machine's operation. This is a big advantage for those who might find traditional saws intimidating.

The tool-free blade clamps are another beginner-friendly feature. Changing blades is quick and hassle-free, allowing users to focus more on their projects rather than wrestling with the equipment. Additionally, the variable speed control is conveniently located on the front upper arm, making it simple to adjust speeds as needed for different materials.

However, the DEWALT Scroll Saw does come with some considerations. At 66 pounds, it may be on the heavier side for some users, making it less portable for those who might want to move it around frequently. Also, while the arm design allows for easy inside cuts, it does require some familiarity for optimal use. Beginners may need to spend some time getting comfortable with the machine's capabilities.

The effective dust blower and collection system is a plus, as it keeps the workspace clean and helps maintain visibility while cutting, which is crucial for accurate work, especially for novices learning the ropes.

In terms of performance, the saw's motor operates at 4500 RPM, which is powerful enough for most wood projects, making it suitable for both simple and more detailed work. The warranty also provides peace of mind, as DEWALT offers a three-year limited warranty, indicating confidence in the product's durability.

The DEWALT Scroll Saw (DW788) is well-suited for beginners eager to explore scroll sawing, thanks to its ease of use and reliable performance. With a little practice, it's an excellent tool for turning creative ideas into reality.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,382
Variable Speed
Blade Tensioning
Dust Blower and Collection

Most important from
1634 reviews

Variable Speed
The variable speed control is straightforward to use, allowing for seamless adjustments to suit different materials.
Blade Tensioning
The blade changing process is incredibly easy and hassle-free, making it a standout feature for beginners.
Dust Blower and Collection
The blower is highly effective and can be positioned exactly where needed, ensuring a clear view of the cutting line.
#2

SKIL 1.2 Amp 16 in. Variable Speed Scroll Saw with LED Work Light for Woodworking - SS9503-00

Rating
8.8
Blade Tensioning

Most important from
191 reviews

Blade Tensioning
Solidly built and easy to use with quick blade installation.

The SKIL 1.2 Amp 16 in. Variable Speed Scroll Saw is an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore woodworking projects. One of its standout features is the foot pedal, allowing for better control while keeping both hands on the workpiece, which is particularly beneficial for detailed tasks. The integrated LED work light enhances visibility, making it easier to see the cutting line from various angles. Its electronic variable speed control is a great asset, enabling users to adjust the speed according to the material they are working with, providing versatility across different projects.

The 16 x 10-inch tilting work table is another strength, as it can tilt from 0 to 45 degrees, allowing for precise angle cuts, which is essential for more complex designs. The keyless blade change feature simplifies switching out blades, which can be a hassle on other scroll saws. Additionally, the integrated dust removal system helps maintain a clear view of the cutting line, promoting accuracy.

The SKIL SS9503-00 is well-equipped for beginners due to its user-friendly features, making it best suited for hobbyists or those engaging in small to moderate woodworking projects who appreciate the ease of use and additional controls for a better crafting experience.

Rating
8.8
Blade Tensioning

Most important from
191 reviews

Blade Tensioning
Solidly built and easy to use with quick blade installation.
#3

WEN LL2156 21-Inch 1.6-Amp Variable Speed Parallel Arm Scroll Saw with Extra-Large Dual-Bevel Steel Table, Black Orange

Rating
8.5
Blade Type
Table Tilt
Blade Tensioning

Most important from
136 reviews

Blade Type
Changing the pinless blades is super easy, making it user-friendly for beginners.
Table Tilt
The table tilt is easy to adjust, and the blade tensioning mechanism works well with various blades.
Blade Tensioning
The table tilt is easy to adjust, and the blade tensioning mechanism works well with various blades.
Dust Blower and Collection
One downside is the weak dust blower, which requires additional clean-up.

The WEN LL2156 scroll saw is a solid choice for beginners looking to dive into woodwork. Its parallel-arm design and heavy-duty steel construction significantly reduce vibrations and noise, making for a smoother experience while working. The spacious 25-5/8 by 16-inch table allows for versatile cutting and can tilt up to 45 degrees to the left and 30 degrees to the right, which is great for angled cuts.

One of its key strengths is the variable speed motor, which offers flexibility in cutting different materials, while the included two 5-inch pinless blades provide convenience for various projects. The tool-free blade changes through dual side panels are a user-friendly feature, particularly helpful for beginners who may struggle with complex setups.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The scroll saw is fairly heavy at 53.8 pounds, which may pose challenges for transport or moving around in a workshop. Additionally, while the dust collection port is a plus, some users might find it less effective than expected, requiring additional clean-up after use. The tool provides a good mix of features that can benefit beginners in woodworking, although its weight and dust management could be points of consideration when making a purchase.

Rating
8.5
Blade Type
Table Tilt
Blade Tensioning

Most important from
136 reviews

Blade Type
Changing the pinless blades is super easy, making it user-friendly for beginners.
Table Tilt
The table tilt is easy to adjust, and the blade tensioning mechanism works well with various blades.
Blade Tensioning
The table tilt is easy to adjust, and the blade tensioning mechanism works well with various blades.
Dust Blower and Collection
One downside is the weak dust blower, which requires additional clean-up.

Buying Guide for the Best Scroll Saw For Beginners

Choosing the right scroll saw can be a bit overwhelming, especially for beginners. A scroll saw is a versatile tool used for intricate cuts and detailed woodworking projects. To make the best choice, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a scroll saw, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Throat DepthThe throat depth is the distance from the blade to the back of the saw. This spec determines the maximum width of the material you can cut. For beginners, a throat depth of 16 to 20 inches is usually sufficient, as it allows for a good balance between versatility and ease of use. If you plan to work on larger projects, you might need a deeper throat, but for most beginner projects, a mid-range depth is ideal.
Blade TypeScroll saws use either pinned or pinless blades. Pinned blades are easier to change and are generally more robust, making them a good choice for beginners. Pinless blades, on the other hand, offer more precision and are better for intricate cuts. If you're just starting out, pinned blades might be more forgiving and easier to handle, but as you gain experience, you might want to experiment with pinless blades for more detailed work.
Variable SpeedVariable speed control allows you to adjust the speed of the blade to match the material you're cutting. This is important because different materials require different speeds for optimal cutting. For beginners, a scroll saw with variable speed control is highly recommended, as it provides greater flexibility and control. Look for a saw that offers a range of speeds, typically from 400 to 1,600 strokes per minute, to accommodate various materials and project types.
Table TiltThe table tilt feature allows you to tilt the saw's table to make angled cuts. This is useful for creating beveled edges and other angled cuts. For beginners, a scroll saw with a table that tilts up to 45 degrees is usually sufficient. This feature adds versatility to your saw, enabling you to tackle a wider range of projects. Make sure the table tilt mechanism is easy to adjust and locks securely in place.
Blade TensioningBlade tensioning refers to how the blade is tightened and held in place. Proper blade tension is crucial for accurate cuts and preventing the blade from breaking. Some scroll saws have a tool-free tensioning system, which is convenient and easy to use, especially for beginners. Look for a saw with an intuitive tensioning system that allows you to quickly and easily adjust the blade tension as needed.
Dust Blower and CollectionA dust blower helps keep your cutting line clear of sawdust, while a dust collection port allows you to connect a vacuum to keep your workspace clean. Both features are important for maintaining visibility and reducing cleanup time. For beginners, a scroll saw with an effective dust blower and a dust collection port is highly recommended. This will help you focus on your work without constantly stopping to clear away debris.

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