What is a Fretsaw?

A fretsaw, also known as a coping saw, is a type of handsaw that is used for intricate cutting tasks, such as cutting curves, circles, and intricate shapes in thin materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. The saw consists of a narrow, flexible blade with small teeth that are designed to make precise cuts in tight spaces and intricate patterns.

The blade of a fretsaw is attached to a U-shaped frame that is typically made of metal or plastic, with a handle at each end for gripping and controlling the saw. The frame is adjustable, allowing the user to change the tension of the blade and adjust the angle of the cut as needed.

Fretsaws are commonly used in woodworking and metalworking, as well as in crafts such as model-making, jewelry-making, and decorative arts. They are especially useful for cutting intricate designs and patterns, as the narrow blade allows for precise control and maneuverability.

While fretsaws are typically used by hand, there are also power tools called scroll saws that use a similar blade and frame design to make intricate cuts in a variety of materials.