One problem when making scales is in obtaining 1/8" thick hardwood slabs that are at least 6" long. Usually all that is available is either too short or in 1" x 1" or 2" x 2" blocks. I thought I would have to buy a band-saw in order to re-saw blocks into 1/8" slabs. The problem is that reviews indicate that the relatively inexpensive 9" band-saws are next to worthless and that I would have to buy at least a 10" or larger band-saw costing a minimum of $250 and usually much more. Also a band-saw takes up more space than I have available.

Well folks, there is a very reasonable work around. You can buy one or two Japanese saws that will effectively re-saw small blocks of hardwood. I purchased two (9-1/2" Double Edge (Ryoba) Razor-saw for Hardwoods Price: $40.00 and Gyokucho 9-1/2" Double Edge (Ryoba) RazorSaw Price: $36.00) from Japan Woodworker. So far, I like the Gyokucho the best. They both work well. I need to refine my technique to re-saw but I have been re-sawing lignum vatae without trouble. One drawback is that you have to have a good vise to hold the wood.