You guys spoke up and I listened. Here is a quick example of scrolling a name in real time. Saws and blade types and species of wood are all factors for the experienced scroller. For those just getting started this is what I say; start where you are. If the only saw you have access to is your grandfathers 12" craftsman, use it. Blow off the dust, lube the moving parts, steel wool the table and put in an Olsen blade.
If you have a modest budget to work with, get what you can. The size of the saw is the depth of the cut, from blade to back. All scroll saws use 5" blades and have a 3/4" stroke and cut up to 2" stock. There are 2 types of blades, pin type and pinless. I use the pinless simply because you can thread it thru a smaller hole.
Lets talk about wood. For starting out, practice is what you want to do so pallet wood is great for that. I have even used pallet wood to make some really nice stuff. And yes, you will cut your fingers. Get some band-aids and suck it up. You won't lose a finger or injure yourself badly, just nicks here and there.
I would love to know your skill level and see your progress / projects so don't be shy. I have trained adults, teens and those who have never even seen a scroll saw before so nothing is laughable. I am as serious as you are about your scrolling journey so please share!!