Kirathaune ([info]kirathaune) wrote in [info]metalsmithing,
@ 2008-04-16 09:32:00
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Current mood: impressed

Sawing isn't really sooo bad, after all!
It's amazing what using a tool properly can do!

I've been avoiding any jewelry designs that would call for the use of a jeweler's saw, because it was always the bane of my existence. Blades would break left and right, and I couldn't saw the simplest thing without going through at least 3 blades.

Then, surfing around for something else entirely, I came across an online tutorial about using a jeweler's saw, and the woman gave a chart that told you what blade size to use with what gauge metal. Ooooooooh!

So last night I sawed, using the blade size recommended by her chart. Didn't break a SINGLE BLADE. It went so fast and easy I couldn't believe it! I had been using a #2 blade in the past, and was SUPPOSED to use a 3/0.

Basically, it was the equivalent of me using a chain saw when I should have used a fine Japanese hand saw!!


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[info]padawanspider
2008-04-16 02:01 pm UTC (link)
It's true, it does take some time to get the hang of using a jeweler's saw. Congratulations on your breakthrough!

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[info]kirathaune
2008-04-16 02:11 pm UTC (link)
Here's the chart, in case it can give someone else a breakthough!

16 gauge sheet metal - #2 saw blade
18 gauge sheet metal - #1
20 gauge sheet metal - #1/0
24 gauge sheet metal - #4/0
26 gauge sheet metal - #6/0
28 gauge sheet metal - #8/0
30-34 gauge sheet metal - cut with shears

Found it on http://www.jatayu.com/Education/Tutorials/SFDtut.htm

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number of teeth
[info]hairfan
2008-04-16 08:33 pm UTC (link)
The rule of thumb is that you should have at least 1 1/2 teeth for the size of metal you are trying to cut. If the teeth are too large the blade will tend to jump around.
The tips about light pressure, keeping blade taut, lubrication are all good. When I saw I the blade tends to loosen, especially if I am sawing vigorously. I tend to break the blades when I go too fast, and don't pause to tighten the blade again.

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[info]cissa
2008-04-16 10:56 pm UTC (link)
A really good sawframe- like the non-adjustable Swiss ones for $12US- and good-quality blades can make a huge difference, too.

I HATED sawing when I was starting out... and was using a cheap adjustable frame and really cheap blades. Once I changed to decent ones, I couldn't believe the difference!

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[info]vuorbi
2008-04-17 08:45 am UTC (link)
I had a similar problem a couple of times when I didn't pay attention to the fineness of the blade. You live and learn. That looks like a really good chart.

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[info]oh_bother
2008-04-21 11:41 pm UTC (link)
I had always understood that the teeth per thickness was 2.5 teeth rather than the above stated 1.5 so that you always have at least one tooth on the metal.
It used to be common practice to saw out the designs on coins for practice.

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I only ever use one size.
(Anonymous)
2008-04-27 11:56 pm UTC (link)
I only ever use one size. It seems to work well for me. I don't cut throw sheet too often, but If I do it is on the thicker side.

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