DaMunchMan

Would the Craftsman 16" variable speed saw be ok to start out with or would I be better off spending the extra $200 or so on something better?

Thank you all for your input. I can't wait to get started. I'm sure I'll have more questions to come. I'm currently reading a few books to answer a few questions I have about different setups with blades and table tilt as well as other things called The New Scroll Saw Handbook by Patrick Spielman and got 2 other books Popular Mechanics: Scroll Saw Fundamentals The Complete Guide by Rick Peters and Scroll Saw For The First Time by Dirk Boelman. They give an insight into the differences between saws as well as different kinds of projects you can do. Seems like good reading for new scrollers.

First off hello to everyone here! I've been lurking and reading and it's so nice to find a place with so much knowledge and nice people willing to share their knowledge. My question is something everyone asks. I've read reviews and posts all over the Internet and I'm still unsure of what to get. I'm looking for advice on aquiring a decent scroll saw. I'm kind of leaning towards the Delta 20 in or the Dewalt 20 in at the moment. Is one better than the other? I am a complete scroller virgin and have never made saw dust yet but intend to make piles of it soon. I'll be doing all types of work and I'm especially interested in intarsia. I'm open to other models of scroll saws also. I'd like to stay in the $200-$400 range. I really would prefer a quick or easy release blade as opposed to needing a tool. Something that is durable and works great with minimal vibration. Also maybe share a website or place to get the best deal on my purchase. I looked at craigslist but there's not a lot of choice in my area. I wish I could afford the Excaliber but that's beyond my budget and the Craftsman is affordable but seems high maintenance. Thank you all for your help and I look forward to sharing my creations with you. P.S I heard of scroll saw projects and intarsia but what exactly is fretwork?