Scrollsaw Chandelier

If you're still discovering what you can do with a scrollsaw, here's a nice project to try out. In this article we show you how to make a very simple chandelier. After you've done this use your imagination to come up with unique designs for your own chandeliers.

 

YOU WILL NEED:

10 TPI scroll saw blade
6mm Supawood (MDF)
Carbon paper and pencil
Drill and 4mm drill bit

 

 

HERE'S HOW:

1. Start by tracing the design onto the Supawood. I use a sheet of carbon paper so that the copied design is dark and easy to see. Place the designs close to an edge of the board to make it easy to start the cutting process.

Tips before starting
I used a standard hand-held drill and a 4mm drill bit to create holes in some of the tighter sections of the pattern. This makes it easier to get in and out and have a smooth, clean cut and I don’t have the luxury of a drill press!

The trick to getting in and out of tight turns is to make the cut and then reverse ever so slightly and gently turn - right or left - in small increments until you are facing in the direction that you want to go.

2. The top and base were drawn and cut out of 100 x 100mm squares. The base is simply a ring that will slot into the cut outs created at the bottom of the design. The top is a solid circle with a cut out in the centre to accept the light fitting, and 4 slots to accept the cut outs created at the top of the design. Use wood glue and clamps to affix the cut outs to the top and bottom.

3.Sand down any rough spots with 240-grit sandpaper.

4. Use high gloss spray paint to finish off. Apply at least three coats and allow sufficient drying time between coats.

5. Insert the light fitting and cable, add your crystal beads and hang!

Now that you've seen how easy it is to DIY your own chandelier, draw up a few designs that you can cut out with a scrollsaw, or even a jigsaw, and create a beautiful handcrafted chandelier for your home !

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