When I think about it, I try to keep the right side of the blade into the waste area. Of course, I don't often think so really just whichever way that is convenient.
When I saw your topic, my first response was to start from the beginning to the end.
With the Delta saws I had you had to be a bottom feeder. Worked fine except when doing fine fretwork as was sometimes hard to find the hole. Got my 788 and tried top feeding and it is much easier just took some getting used to.
I keep an old credit card handy to check that the blade is square to the table. I am usually reminded to check when a small piece doesn't drop out after cutting.
I agree that after trying the hawk, I would offer $350 to open negotiation. I say to try it first because I found out the hard way. Saw an auction with a Hawk that was 18" and I knew they hadn't made that size. Turns out it was a 26" but when we finally got it plugged in found out the variable speed was acting up. The lady said oh that, it just takes some fiddling to get it running.
Great job. I saved that word pattern but is buried in the to do pile. The reverse #3 is one of my go to blades along with the #5 and lately have used the #1 for some patterns from Sheila.
I have disowned my family but have been invited out by a young lady at least young to me then want to get an order finished in the shop so I can finish some items I'm doing for friends for Christmas.
Finally got a camera working. The ornaments are a new pattern from Sheila that I changed to 1/4" except for the BB that is 1/8". They are in purpleheart, mahogany, walnut and oak.
The Merry Christmas is in soft maple or aspen.
Most portraits are done with 1/8 or 1/4" Baltic birch. The cutting is easier if you stack at least 2 or 3. Backing can be anything such as painted wood, fabric, felt, foam board, etc.
Started out working with my Grandfather in his shop. Used the scrollsaw as a stress reducer and later it became a business until I retired and now it is a hobby again. Have taken up woodcarving so my hobbies are centered around wood.
Welcome to the Village. This is truly a village of helpful people. I take care of my mother who also has macular so can understand what you are facing.