a problem with scrolling

[peterfawzy]

hello guys ,
i have recently bought a new makita sj401 scroll saw for 341 $ and i know its expensive and that's becuz i am in Egypt. The problem here is that here in Egypt we cannot buy good blades , all blades are locally manufactured . i know that all experts say " let the blade do the work " but when i try to scroll i find it difficult to cut the wood without applying too much pressure . could anyone help please?
thnx

[NC Scroller]

Peter can you give some more information like the type of wood, blade size, and how thick the wood is? It will help with our answers.

In general you want to use the largest blade that you can for the project. Run the saw at the fastest speed you are comfortable with. Start with a new blade and replace them as soon as they dull. Cover the project with clear packing tape. This will help to lubricate the blade.

[wood-n-things]

Excellent advice and you might contact Mike at Mikesworkshop for some quality blades.

Mike's Workshop

[Mick Walker]

Peter, if you have to push hard then the blade is dull. I believe Mike ships blades anywhere.

[peterfawzy]

well , its a soft wood , i think its maple , and its 3/4 inch ..when i use blade number 12 i think it cuts perfectly , but when i use number 8 it makes that problem ... and the blades are locally manufactured ...
we don't have mike here in Egypt so i cannot get his blades and i don't know how to test a blade if it is dull or still good :/
thnx guys

[peterfawzy]

and blade # 12 makes a big space between the 2 pieces produced

[Davisjr]

we don't have mike here in Egypt so i cannot get his blades and i don't know how to test a blade if it is dull or still good :/
thnx guys

No Mike is here in the States. If you click on Wood-n-things link in his post "Mike's Workshop". There you can see all the blades he has to offer. I am not sure how much shipping would be to Egypt though.

[JackM]

You can e-mail Mike at [email protected]
He is sure to help you, very friendly and the best.
Jack

[3_M]

He emaild me and I replied but have not heard from him again.
I sell to about 40 different countries.
FD Mike

[peterfawzy]

yea i emaid mike but the problem is that i have to get an international visa or credit card , i thought i could pay the money in a bank or something to his account :/ so im going to have credit card then contact mike again
really thnx guys , u were so helpful

[peterfawzy]

i mean money transfer or something like that , well im not pro in such things