Subject: scroll saw questions

From: [email-masked] (Mark W. Lehman)
Date: 13 Feb 1997 12:26:49 -0600

Hi Folks, am just getting started in woodworking and have some
questions about making the mini clock designs that are always
found in many of the common woodworking magazines. I have made
several of them now and enjoy maaking them very much. So far
I have only given them away as gifts but was wondering if it 
is legal or ethical to make them from someone elses design and
sell them, maybe at craft shows? If anyone has done this I would
be interested in how popular they are and what a fair price is.

Also need advice on what you folks consider to be the best 
quality blades as I have noticed very large differences in
the quality of ones I have bought and used. I don't notice
much difference using the skip tooth blades and was wondering
what purpose they are intended for. I do like the reverse tooth
blades as they make for a clean backside with no splintering.
Also found rounding off the back edges of the blade helps
alot. Any other tips?...especially in cutting thicker wood,
I seem to be having problems with the thicker wood especially
in making any tight turns and at times I burn the wood quite a
bit.

Any other ideas for selling scroll saw crafts that might be
popular? I have been considering whirligigs especially
since the spring and summer season are aproaching.

Lots of questions, I know, but any thoughts ideas or info
would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely, Mark Lehman   [email-masked]

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From: [email-masked] (John Luby)
Date: Thu, 13 Feb 1997 22:31:58 GMT

On 13 Feb 1997 12:26:49 -0600, [email-masked] (Mark W.
Lehman) wrote:

>several of them now and enjoy making them very much. So far
>(SNIP)

I live in the UK, and Mark sounds as though he lives in the US. AFAIK
copyright law in both countries agrees that copyrighted designs,
including those published in books are for personal use only. Quantity
production for profit violates copyright and leaves you open to civil
litigation. I know of one craft business in the UK who not only
produces designs from books wholesale, but uses illustrations from the
books in their catalogue! Asking for trouble.

Once basic principles are grasped, it isn't all that difficult to
produce designs different enough to avoid copyright problems. In any
event, you'll have more success selling fresh ideas and designs.

As for pricing, that's always a killer question. Too low and you won't
make costs, too high and you won't sell. The big trick is figuring
accurately what your costs really are - don't forget power usage,
transport, wastage, paperwork, etc. etc. My own view is that if you
can't beat the competition without selling below (realistic) cost,
find another business. DON'T undercut other people on the basis that
it's just a hobby for you - they might be doing it for a livelihood.

One last point for anyone selling craftwares, especially via stalls
and shows. Whatever the general prices of your wares, always ensure
that your stock includes a few inexpensive items - many people who
won't or can't stretch to a major purchase will be glad to buy these
rather than leave empty handed, especially if they've been at your
stall more than a minute or two.

That said, scrollwork products are again becoming fashionable, and
it's a fascinating area of woodwork. Good Luck.

( [email-masked]  - my address for non-spammers )