How to Change a Scroll Saw Blade

  • 0.5-1
  • Beginner
  • 200-250
What You'll Need
Scroll saw
Scroll saw blade
Screw driver (Phillips or flat)
Allen wrench
What You'll Need
Scroll saw
Scroll saw blade
Screw driver (Phillips or flat)
Allen wrench

The proper changing of a scroll saw blade is important in maintaining the saw's effectiveness and the safety of the operator. Blades that are used often may require frequent changing; continuous upkeep of all equipment is necessary in getting the most use out of the saw. Depending on the manufacturer of the saw, the precise steps for changing the blade may differ, but most should be relatively similar.

Step 1 - Safety First

Before you begin, make sure that the saw is unplugged. This is to ensure that the saw is not inadvertently turned on and helps prevent electrical shock.

Step 2 - Loosen the Screws or Bolts


The manufacturer will likely use two screws, bolts or turnable knobs to keep the blade in place. If you are working with a table scroll saw, one screw may be located at the top and one at the bottom. Handheld saws may have one screw in the front and another at the top. Refer to the saw's instructional manual if you have difficulty locating them. Loosen the screws using the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench. In most cases you should not completely remove them.

Step 3 - Remove the Old Scroll Saw Blade

Once the screws have been loosened enough, you are ready to remove the blade. If you are dealing with a table scroll saw, the blade should be pulled up and towards you as you remove it. Hand-held saws may require that you move the blade sideways away from the screw and then down. Others may simply fall out as you loosen the screws. Again, refer to the instructional manual if you have difficulty figuring out how to remove the blade.

Step 4 - Choose and Examine the New Blade


Once the old blade is removed, you should choose the new scroll saw blade you wish to install. Determine if you want a thin blade, thicker blade or a heavy duty blade. The blade should be inserted with the teeth facing downwards, although some blades may have teeth that face both upwards and downwards to achieve a smoother cut. Any questions should be referred to the instructional manual.

Step 5 - Insert the New Scroll Saw Blade


Locate the two holes on the new blade and insert it in the opposite way the old blade was removed. For example, if the old blade was removed by pulling it up and towards you, the new blade should be inserted downwards and away from you. The two holes are for the screws to hold the blade in place.

Step 6 - Tighten the Screws


With the new blade in place, tighten the screws but allow for some adjustment in getting the blade straight. Once the blade is straight, you can proceed in tightening both screws enough so that the blade is no longer loose.

Step 7 - Test It Out


Turn on the saw and test the new blade to make sure that it is not loose and has been installed correctly. If necessary, tighten the screws or adjust the blade so that it is straight and facing the right way.

Once you determine the blade has been installed correctly, you're ready to begin cutting.