You might want to check at Lowes, HD or your local lumber yard to see about ordering some BB in 5x5 sheets. I get it for $25 and have them cut it in half so I can transport it.
I am jealous as my caregiving duties have kept me hopping 24/7 for the last few weeks. Not even sure I could find my way to the shop. Do manage to get on here for a visit before the daily activity begins.
Roly, the Free4all forum was transferred over to Scroll Saw Woodworking and Crafts site although they are having a lot of difficulty and don't appear to be interested in fixing the problems.
My go to blades are FDUR #1,3,5. I have some spirals but despise them and only get them out for large projects.
The one piece of advice that I give to new scrollers is to make sure you always feed the work directly into the blade without sideways pressure.
I have made a lot of trivets over the years and prefer a 5/8" thickness in hardwood. I have finished mine with mineral oil. Just dip and let drip dry then buff out with a brown paper bag. Have one on my table that has been in use for years with no problems.