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Hi all, I've been brainstorming some projects for a few months now, and received my scroll saw today. I purchased a Porter Cable 1.6amp Scroll saw, which accepts 5" pin & pin end blades. I also purchased a set of Olson Saw blades to get started with, which I have yet to try. This is my first time using a scroll saw. I tried cutting some scrap wood earlier with the included blade, just to get a feel for the machine. I ran into some difficulty cutting around curves (I tried cutting out a circle), which I'm hoping to get better at time with practice. I do have a few questions that I'm hoping someone can answer. Ideally, I would like to focus on detailed, intricate work (focus on lettering, custom keychains, nameplates, stuff of the like). I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for blades, and also material/wood. I'm looking for something I can pick up at my local Lowe's and/or Home Depot, just to get started. I've read that Flying Dutchmen blades are highly recommended, but wanted to make sure I purchase the "right" set for the type of work I'd like to focus on (would spiral blades be a good idea)? In terms of wood/material, I'm looking for something that is affordable, but with a decent quality to it, and of course, usable with a scroll saw. Perhaps something that will look nice with a simple wood stain, eliminating the need to paint it over, when it comes to finishing options. I've attached some links to below for reference. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, and i look forward to learning more. Scroll Saw: http://www.amazon.com/Variable-Speed-Scroll-Saw-Stand/dp/B00UVY8Y1C Blades: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G33Q6Q?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 Kind of work I'm interested in making: http://womeninwoodworking.com/Resource.ashx?sn=ScrollSawnNameplates http://www.sheilalandrydesigns.com/files/437434/uploaded/sld486-scroll-saw-merry-christmas-letter-pattern2.jpg http://www.coolhammers.com/new_page_8_files/image002.jpg

This is a special order I did for a local Doctor. I have no idea what it means. She did not say. Maple inlaid into cedar.