How to Make a JOY Christmas Ornament with the Proxxon Scroll Saw

 There’s something special about handmade ornaments—especially the ones that bring a little extra cheer to the Christmas tree. This JOY ornament is a perfect blend of rustic charm and precision woodworking, and it’s a project that showcases just how versatile the Proxxon scroll saw is. Whether you’re new to scroll‑saw crafting or you’ve already fallen in love with the fine control this tool offers, this project is a satisfying way to create a personalized keepsake that looks beautiful on any holiday tree. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through the steps to cut and finish the letters so you can make your own festive JOY ornament with clean lines, crisp curves, and a polished final look.

You'll need these supplies and equipment:

• 1/8" to 1/4" wood blank
• JOY Ornament Template
• Proxxon Pen Sander PS 13
• Proxxon Bench Drill Press TMB 115
• Proxxon Scroll Saw
• 12" length of twine or ribbon for hanging the ornament
• Finish of your choice

Let's make the JOY Ornament:

1. Mount the pattern on the wood blank. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the pattern with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape makes removal of the pattern easy without leaving any sticky residue.
   
   
   
2. Use the bench drill press to drill a pilot hole large enough to pass the scroll saw blade through it. Using a piece of waste wood under the blank helps to minimize tear-out.
   
   
   
3. Cut the JOY shape using the scroll saw.
   
   
   
4. Use the bench drill press to drill the hole at the top for a length of twine or ribbon for hanging. Again, use a piece of waste wood.
   
   
   
5. Sand and smooth the edges with the pen sander. It's the perfect tool for those tight angles.
   
   
   
6. Finishing is your choice. Sanding and oiling highlight the beautiful graining of hardwoods. Painting in bright holiday colors is another option. I've covered this ornament with a scrap of buffalo plaid adhesive vinyl.
7. The last step is adding the twine or ribbon for hanging the ornament.

Once the finish is complete and the ornament is hanging from a branch, you’ll see why scroll‑sawn holiday pieces are such a joy to make. This project is small, approachable, and packed with opportunities to practice precision cutting—perfect for building confidence with the Proxxon scroll saw. Whether you gift it, sell it, or keep it for your own tree, your handmade JOY ornament will add a heartfelt touch to the season. And now that you’ve mastered this design, you can easily adapt the technique for other words, shapes, or holiday themes to expand your collection of custom wooden ornaments.

Carole

How to Make a Hardwood Hair Comb Using Cut-offs and Scraps

 There’s something deeply satisfying about turning a small offcut of hardwood into a beautiful, functional object you can actually wear. This hair comb project is one of those deceptively simple builds that shows off the elegance of clean lines, careful shaping, and the precision you can get from Proxxon tools. With just a bandsaw, a sander, and a few thoughtful passes at the bench, you can transform a scrap of maple, cherry, or walnut into a smooth, sculptural comb that feels wonderful in the hand and glides easily through hair. It’s a perfect beginner‑friendly woodworking project, a great gift idea, and a lovely way to use up those treasured little pieces of hardwood you’ve been saving for “something special.” 

Supplies and Equipment:

• Scraps of hardwood ⅛” thick

• Hair Comb Patterns

• Proxxon Bandsaw MBS/E

• Proxxon Disc Sander TG 125/E

• Proxxon Pen Sander PS 13

• Finish of your choice

Let’s make a hardwood hair comb:

1. Mount the pattern on the wood blank. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the pattern with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape makes removal of the pattern easy without leaving any sticky residue.

   
   
   

2. Cut the shape using the bandsaw or scroll saw.

   
   
   

3. Use the disc sander to smooth the surface and round the edges.

   
   
   

4. Use the pen sander to sand between the teeth of the comb while slightly rounding the edges of the teeth.

   
   
   

5. Using progressively finer grits of sand paper, sand the comb until it is glass-smooth so it will glide through the hair effortlessly.

6. Lastly, treat the comb with the finish of your choice. I use a wood block oil for the most natural finish.

Making a hardwood hair comb with Proxxon tools is a reminder that small projects can deliver big joy. The compact size of the tools, the control they offer, and the gentle pace of shaping each tine turn the process into a calming, almost meditative experience. By the time you burnish the final surface and see the grain come alive, you’ve created something both practical and beautiful—an everyday object elevated by craftsmanship. Whether you’re adding this comb to your own routine or gifting it to someone who appreciates handmade pieces, it’s a project that proves how accessible fine woodworking can be when you have the right tools and a bit of creative curiosity. 

Carole

How to Make a Bench Scraper from Scrap Wood Pieces

There’s something wonderfully grounding about making a kitchen tool with your own hands—especially one you’ll reach for every time you bake. This maple and purpleheart bench scraper is a small project with big impact: sturdy enough to portion dough, wide enough to scoop up chopped ingredients, and pretty enough to leave out on the counter. It’s a satisfying blend of woodworking and kitchen practicality, and a great way to use up hardwood offcuts while creating something genuinely useful.

In this post, I’ll show how I shaped the maple blade, added the contrasting purpleheart handle, and refined everything with Proxxon tools to get a smooth, comfortable scraper that feels great in the hand. You’ll be able to drop this right into your baking routine—whether you’re dividing sourdough, cleaning your work surface, or transferring herbs from the cutting board to the pan.

Supplies and Equipment That You'll Need:

• Scraps of hardwoods (I used maple for the blade and purpleheart for the handles)
• Liquid wood adhesive
• Clamps
• Food safe finishing oil
• Proxxon Bandsaw
• Proxxon Disc Sander
• Proxxon Delta Sander

Let's Make Your Own Bench Scraper:

1. Decide the size for your bench scraper. For your first one, I recommend staying between 3" and 6" wide and 4" to 5" in height. Of course, your personal preferences and the scraps you have on hand will influence the size of your scraper. Caution: Be sure that the woods you use are food safe.
2. Cut the blanks using the bandsaw. You'll need one piece for the blade and two pieces for the handle. Handle pieces should be ½" to 1" in width and ¼" to 3/8" in thickness, and the grain should run the length of the piece. Cut the two handle pieces about ½" longer than the width of the scraper. Cut the scraper blade to size (mine measures 3" x 5") with the grain running top to bottom.
   
   
   
3. Use the disc sander to form a tapered bottom edge on the scraper blade.
   
   
   
4. Use the Delta sander to sand all surfaces of the blade and handle pieces. Use progressively finer grits of sand paper to achieve the smoothest finish possible.
   
   
   
5. Glue one handle in place. Roughly center the blade on the handle piece with the excess length extending on each side of the blade. Allowing adequate drying time before gluing the second handle in place. Glue the second handle piece in place and allow to dry overnight.
   
   
   
6. Now it's time to shape the top and handles. Use the bandsaw to cut away the excess handle length on each side of the scraper. Now, all the layers are flush and ready to be uniformly rounded.
   
   
   
7. Mark the quarter round on the top corner of each side.
   
   
   
8. Round each top corner of the scraper on the disc sander.
   
   
   
9. Apply a food safe coat of finishing oil.
   
   
   
10. Now, you're ready to put your bench scraper to use.

    

    
    

A handmade bench scraper brings a touch of craftsmanship to everyday cooking, and once you’ve made one, it quickly becomes a favorite tool. The maple gives it a clean, classic look, while the purpleheart adds a pop of color that makes the piece feel special. With the precision of the Proxxon tools, shaping and smoothing the parts becomes an enjoyable, meditative process, and the end result is a kitchen utensil that’s both beautiful and hardworking.

Feel free to experiment with different hardwoods, handle shapes, or finishes to match your own kitchen aesthetic. This project also makes a thoughtful, practical gift for bakers and food‑loving friends. Once you’ve made one, you may find yourself making a whole batch.

Carole

How to Make a Paint‑Stir‑Stick Patriotic Star

Patriotic décor is one of my favorite things to craft—bold colors, crisp lines, and endless ways to personalize. This paint‑stir‑stick star is lightweight, inexpensive, and perfect for front doors, mantels, tiered trays, or July 4th gatherings. With a little help from the Proxxon tool, you can turn simple stir sticks into a dimensional starburst that looks like boutique décor.

Supplies and Equipment: 

• 3–4 wooden paint stir sticks

• Liquid wood glue

• Patriotic Star Pattern 

• Painter’s tape

• Spray adhesive

• Paint, stain, or decorative paper

• Ribbon and embellishments (optional)

• Proxxon Bandsaw

• Proxxon Bench Drill Press

• Proxxon Delta sander

Let’s Make a Patriotic Paint-Stir-Stick Star:

1. Print two copies of the Patriotic Star Pattern.

2. Cut out the shapes from one of the printed pattern copies. Mount the pieces onto the stir sticks. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the patterns with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape makes removal of the pattern easy without leaving any sticky residue. In place of stir sticks, you could use any ⅛” to ¼” scrap lumber. The Patriotic Star Pattern is sized for sticks 1.07” wide.

3. Cut the pieces using the bandsaw.

4. Sand any fuzzy edges with the Delta sander.

5. Arrange the star pieces right side down on the second star pattern.

6. Glue the two support strips in place as shown. Set aside until the glue is thoroughly dried.

7. Use the bench drill press to drill a small centered hole ~½” from the top of the center stick. Use a piece of waste wood under the star to minimize tear-out.

8. Now, you’re ready to paint or finish the patriotic star.

Here’s where you can really customize the look. Try one of these finishing styles:

Classic Painted Patriotic Star

• Paint alternating sections red, white, and blue.
• Add white stars using a stencil or vinyl.
• Distress lightly with sandpaper for a rustic Americana look.

Stained Wood Americana

• Stain the sticks in three tones: natural, dark walnut, and barn red.
• Arrange them in repeating color order for a warm, vintage feel.

Scrapbook Paper or Napkin Decoupage

• Cut paper pieces to fit each stick.
• Apply with Mod Podge.
• Great for patterned stars (gingham, stripes, fireworks, etc.)

Metallic Firework Star

• Spray paint the entire star silver or gold.
• Add glitter accents or metallic wax for dimension.

Vinyl (This is the option I chose.)

• Cut pieces of red, white, and blue self-adhesive vinyl to fit each stick using the Patriotic Star Pattern as a guide. 

9. A dimensional bow like the one in the photo adds the perfect finishing touch. Visit https://bowdabra.com/tutorial/ to learn how to make the perfect bow for your patriotic star.

10. Add a sawtooth hanger, jute loop, or magnetic strip depending on where you plan to display it. Hang and enjoy!!

How to Make Unique Wooden Clips Using Proxxon MICROMOT Tools

There’s something deeply satisfying about turning small offcuts of wood into beautiful, functional objects. These little wooden clips—perfect as scarf pins, shawl closures, bag fasteners, or decorative accents—are a wonderful example of how simple tools and thoughtful shaping can transform scraps into something special.

I first saw these online, and knew this was a project perfect for  Proxxon tools. I make these clips using two of my favorite woodworking tools: the Bandsaw and the Bench Drill Press. Their precision and small footprint make them ideal for crafting projects where detail matters.

These Wooden Clips Are Fun to Make

• They require only small pieces of wood—perfect for using up scraps.

• Each one turns out slightly different, giving them a handmade, organic charm.

• The project is quick: you can batch several in an afternoon.

• Used as bag clips, they are both practical and beautiful.

• They make lovely gifts or add-ons to other handmade projects.

Materials & Equipment

• Hardwood scraps such as walnut, maple, cherry, or oak

• Proxxon Bandsaw MBS/EP

• Proxxon Bench Drill Press TMB 115

• Proxxon Delta sander

• Mini Wood Clips Template

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Attach the Template Print the mini wood clips template and mount on the hardwood blank. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the patterns with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape makes removal of the pattern easy without leaving any sticky residue. Make sure the length of the clips are aligned with the grain for strength.

Step 2: Cut the Shape on the Bandsaw Use your Proxxon bandsaw mounted with the scroll saw band to cut around the exterior outline of the clip. This particular band is specially made to give clean, controlled cuts on the tightest curves.

Step 3: Drill the Stress-Relief Hole Mount bench drill press with a bit appropriate in size to the clip and the hole on the pattern. Drill the stress-relief hole at the base of the clip. A piece of waste wood under the clip helps minimize tear-out.

Step 4: Cut the Center Slit on the Bandsaw Now, return to the bandsaw and cut the center slit on the clip. 

Step 4: Sand for a Silky Finish Move through progressively finer grits of sandpaper—120 to 400—using the Delta sander as well as hand sanding to to achieve a perfect finish.

Step 6: Apply a Natural Finish Wipe away dust and apply a food‑safe oil. Buff until the clip is free of any residual surface oils. Hardwoods like maple, cherry, or walnut look especially beautiful with a simple hand oiled finish.

Ideas for Using These Wooden Clips

• Bag closures for snacks and other bagged foods

• Shawl or scarf closures

• Decorative accents on bags or hats

• Gift toppers

• Hair accessories

They’re small, tactile, and endlessly customizable—perfect for makers who love turning scraps into treasures. These wooden clips are a joy to make, especially with the precision of the Proxxon bandsaw and the reliability of a bench drill press. They’re quick, satisfying, and a great way to explore shaping, drilling, and finishing on a small scale.

Carole

How to Make Lucet Forks

A lucet fork is a traditional cord‑making tool used since Viking times. It creates a sturdy, square length of cord. Once you learn the rhythm, it’s a relaxing, almost meditative craft.

Lucets are believed to date back to Viking and Medieval periods, where they were used to make cords for clothing, belt attachments, and everyday fastening needs. Early examples of lucets are double‑pronged bones, sometimes with a center hole for drawing the cord through. 

Today—and historically—lucet cords served a variety uses:

• Drawstrings for bags and garments

• Shoelaces and clothing laces

• Belt hangings

• Decorative trims

• Couchwork and embroidery accents

Lucet forks are simple, satisfying tools to make—perfect for scrap wood and a great beginner‑friendly woodworking project. With Proxxon MICROMOT tools you can create smooth, ergonomic lucets that feel wonderful in the hand and look beautiful in photos.

Supplies and Equipment:

• Hardwood scraps (¼”–⅜” thick works best)

• Lucet templates 

• Proxxon Bandsaw MBS/EP

• Proxxon Bench Drill Press TMB 115

• Proxxon Flexishaft 110/P with sanding drum

• Sandpaper (120–400 grit)

Let's Make a Lucet:

Step 1: Prepare and Attach the Template

Print the lucet template and mount on the hardwood blank. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the patterns with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape makes removal of the pattern easy without leaving any sticky residue. Make sure the prongs and handle are aligned with the grain for strength.

Step 2: Cut the Shape on the Bandsaw

Use your Proxxon bandsaw mounted with the scroll saw band to cut around the outline of the lucet. This particular band is specially made to give clean, controlled cuts on the tightest curves.

Step 3: Drill the Center Hole

Use the bench drill press mounted with a ¼” blade to drill the cord‑exit hole at the base of the prongs. A piece of waste wood under the lucet helps minimize tear-out.

Step 4: Refine the Shape with the Flexishaft

Attach a sanding drum to the flexishaft and begin smoothing the curves. The flexishaft gives you precision control—ideal for the tight curves around the prongs.You can also mount a sanding drum in the bench drill press to simulate a spindle sander. This sanding step is essential for a smooth, comfortable, ergonomic tool. Focus on: rounding the prong tips, softening the inside notch, smoothing the handle edges, and blending any saw marks. 

Flexishaft mounted with sanding drum

Sanding drum mounted on bench drill press

Step 5: Sand for a Silky Finish

Move through grits from 120 to 400, using the Delta sander as well as sanding by hand to remove any remaining scratches. Pay special attention to the areas where yarn will glide: the prong tops and the inner notch. A smooth surface prevents snagging.

Step 6: Apply a Natural Finish

Wipe away dust and apply a food‑safe oil. Buff until the lucet is free of any residual surface oils. Hardwoods like maple, cherry, or walnut look especially beautiful with a simple hand oiled finish.

You can find excellent instructions for using your lucet at https://hearthookhome.com/lucet-fork-tutorial.

Carole