Abstract: A scroll saw with an adjustable tensioning mechanism includes a housing having an inner surface and a pivoting arm having a rearward end disposed within an opening in the housing. A first blade clamp is disposed at the forward end of the pivoting arm and secures the upper end of a saw blade. The lower end of the saw blade is secured in a second blade clamp disposed at the forward end of a lower arm. A wedge is disposed within the housing, in contact with the inner surface of the housing. The wedge also is disposed in contact with and translatable along a surface of the pivoting arm. A rod is linked to the wedge at one end and extends through the pivoting arm. The rod includes an upwardly turned arm. A cam having a spiral track is rotatably mounted at the front of the pivoting arm with the upwardly turned arm disposed in the track.