Hello, I have been looking at this and a couple other NG's on
woodworking, and am interested getting a scroll saw to try my hand
at some of the projects I see you guys working on.

I am less than a newbie, more of a newbie want-a-be. I was in a
store a while back and saw some work for sale. They were stars,
state shapes (Texas), and other nice pieces. I asked about them and
the store owner's father-in-law makes them as a hobby. From that, I
got to thinking that this might be something I would like to do in
my retired years (am 73 years old so don't need any real long term
projects (smile)).

I think I would enjoy turning as well, but equipment for lathes and
tools is just too much for my budget, but I can probably swing the
expense of scrolling work. I have been to several internet sites I
have seen mentioned on here, and have found in Goggle. But I still
have a few questions that I'd appreciate some comments on.

Buying a scroll saw: At a big box store, they have two. One is a
Dremmel, 18 inch throat, variable speed of 650 - 4500, price $199.
The other is a Ryobi, 16 inch throat, variable speed of 500 - 4000,
price $99. They both seem to have the same features. Is either one
of these, preferably the cheapest, okay? If not, what features
should I be looking for in a saw, for example, foot switch?

What kinds of wood would I have to buy. Can standard lumber such as
1 X 6, 2 X 12, etc be used or should on consider buying the exotic
woods, which seem to come at a pretty big premium?

In addition to the wood, what are one's need in various blades, and
is this a big expense?

Heck, I don't even know enough about this hobby to ask intelligent
questions, so any suggestions / advice anyone will be nice enough to
pass on, I will appreciate.
Thanks in advance,
Bob-tx