The History of the Scrollsaw
A scroll saw is a small electric- or peda- operated saw useful for cutting intricate curves. Scroll sawing, or fretwork, becamse popular in the United States during the mid-1800s.
By the 1870s, a foot powered scroll saw was developed. By 1874, Helmut Abel of Germany patented a constant-tension saw. In 1921, Carl Moberg of Chicago invented a crank-operated scroll saw, which wasn't manufactured until 1925 by Herbert Tautz, a manufacturer of sewing machines based out of Milwaukee. It wasn't until late 1930s when electric motor saws made it on to the market.
While the saw has evolved since its inception, the fine woodwork tool continues to be a favorite.
Go Deeper
- Visit a gallery of scrollsaw Pieces by Rick Longabaugh
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