Adjusting the Tension of a Scroll Saw Blade

The tension of a scroll saw blade or any saw blade will affect how wood is cut. The bigger a saw is the more tension it can withstand without breaking. High tension can cause the blade to snap when the saw is turned on. Low tension will not cut accurately and could ruin your project. You need to properly adjust the tension before you begin a project.

Step 1 - Read the Manual

The scroll saw manual will tell you everything you need to know about adjusting the tension of a scroll saw blade. If you don’t have your manual because you purchased a used scroll saw or lost your copy, you might be able to find a PDF version online by searching for the model and make of the scroll saw. Read the entire manual before you attempt to adjust the tension and operate the scroll saw for home improvement projects.

Step 2 - Install or Replace the Scroll Saw Blade

If the scroll saw has an existing blade, remove the blade to install a new one. A blade should be removed when it becomes dull. Install a new blade into the scroll saw by following the instructions for installation in the manual. Usually, you will put the scroll saw blade in place and then push a lever down to hold the blade in place and apply tension. Each scroll saw blade is different based on the manufacturer.

Step 3 - Adjust the Tension

Apply tension to the scroll saw blade by tightening the tension rod. Refer to the instruction manual for tips about how to properly adjust the tension. Some saws use a lever to adjust tension while other saws have a screw that is tightened or loosened based on desired tension. Apply light pressure to the blade after it is turned on to listen to the tone. A high-pitched tone means the tension is too high and a very low pitch means the tension is too low. If you’re not sure what the tone should sound like, you can look up a video of a scroll saw blade in use in real life.

Step 4 - Test the Scroll Saw Blade

Lower the blade guard, and then use a small piece of wood as a test piece to try out the scroll saw at the tension you have set. If you see the blade bend when you slide the wood through the saw, you will need to increase the tension. If the blade breaks, the tension is too high. It’s better to have the tension be too low and continue to tighten it than to have the tension too high and break a blade. Wear goggles and safety gloves at all times when working with saws and wood. If the blade breaks from high tension, it could cause an accident.