Making a Frame Saw
Posted 11 August 2016
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Frame saws are low-cost, highly effective saws that can be used for a variety of tasks according to blade type. Paul keeps them around the shop for use in different aspects of his work, including dovetails and all other joinery. Follow along with the videos below to make your own.
Dimensions
The length of the stretcher will depend on the length of the blade.
Part | Quantity | Imperial | Metric |
---|---|---|---|
Uprights | 2 | 7/8” x 1 3/4” x 16” | 22 x 44 x 406mm |
Stretcher (length will vary) | 1 | 7/8” x 1 3/4” x 17 1/2” | 22 x 44 x 445mm |
Hand guard | 1 | 7/8″ x 1 3/4″ x 8″ | 22 x 44 x 203mm |
Toggle bar | 1 | 1/2” x 7/8” x 12” | 13 x 22 x 305mm |
What size blade is required for the 17 1/2” stretcher in this video
Very useful tool, great instructional video as all of your videos are. Thank you Paul and associates for sharing. Always nice to watch and learn from real craftsmen.
Merry Christmas and best wishes for a peaceful and productive New Year
Any suggestions on where to look for a similar blade (with considerable depth)? I can easily get/modify a bandsaw blade for the thinner blade, but the deeper blade is more like what I want.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Dave,
Paul says:
I think it’s just a question of experimentation until you find the one you want.
Kind Regards,
Izzy
Look Here https://www.highlandwoodworking.com/bow-saw-frame-saws-blades.aspx
I have started making this project from scrap maple stair treads. I want to use this saw to cut a bench slab from an Arizona cypress log. So it begins. Thanks
Hey Paul, I was wondering why the backsaw replaced the frame saw for joinery work. Thanks.
Hi Bill,
Paul says:
It didn’t replace it on the continent of Europe for instance, they continue to use frame saws even through to modern times. The back saw was an English invention, copied by other countries including Scotland and America. Here in the UK frame saws were often for turning work to create curves, and though we did have frame saws, the tenon saw was favoured by at least 2 centuries of furniture makers.
Kind Regards,
Izzy