Stack Cutting BB

[kalipbean]

Quick question.

I am just starting one of Mikes intricate patterns. This pattern http://www.mikesscrollsawpatterns.com/pattern.asp?id=106

This is my 2nd pattern from him and i just got some 1/8" Baltic Birch from Sloans and it seems like almost every piece is somewhat warped, not terrible but  not perfectly flat. I stack cut 3 and you can see the middle of the stack a bit raised, and when drilling my entry holes (all 700+ of them) you can hear the drill hit a small gap between the wood. Do you think this will cause any issues when cutting? Anyone experience this? I just want to make sure before I spend 30 hours cutting this beast.

[Gabby]

I haven't tried stack cutting yet but it sounds like you didn't have any adhesive in the middle to pull them all together.
Just a thought.
Gabby

[towdude3]

make sure you hold them flat when drilling to avoid splinters on the backs. You can usually hold them flat when cutting but it gets tiresome after awhile. I try to reverse everyother layer of wood before driling or cutting. That helps but still leaves small gaps.

[dgman]

I agree with towdude. If you have already stacked and drilled, you will have to hold down on the wood as you cut, which you have to do anyway.
All 1/8" BB will have some cupping to it. So I try to alternate the cupping so when I stack them the stack stays flat.

[mrsn]

If you have a large piece that is getting cut out in the middle a nail or staple through the spot will help keep all the pieces together. Cut that spot out close to last or you will loose the clamping effect.

[julief]

Don't worry about it.  You are going to hold it down to cut it anyway.  I do not put adhesive or tape between the layers on something that delicate.  It is too hard not to break it when taking it apart.

[Danny]

Hey....I agree with MRSN ....  Using a small (tiny thin one) You can by being very carefull and having a plan secure all layers very, very good.  Works like a charm.  Danny  :+}

[ChuckD]

As you may have noticed I do a few hard patterns.  To hold the pieces of 1/8th plywood together (never less that four) I drill holes in the larger waste areas, the last to be cut.  In those holes I glue toothpicks,  Yep, toothpicks.  Drill the holes the size of the toothpicks. dab a touch of glue on the toothpick, sand off the amount sticking out and   YOLA, the pieces all stick together and will not move a bit.  Use to use brads till I found out about this.  Ever hit a nail with a scrollsaw blade. 

[Marcellarius]

ninsteat of a nail  I sometimes use 2 side carpet tape in between.

[slowcutter]

Thanks for the toothpick idea.
I use them for lots of things but would not have thought of that.
That would be good for any stack cutting,would all most garrentee no movment
JP

[TomC]

That's why i like these threads.  Always find a good idea that would never have thought of.

[bettyswood]

Toothpicks - wow, never thought of that.  Thanks for the great idea.