you should start out with a Jig/scroll saw. it will do justa bout anything you may want, in thin thickness's. perfect for balsa, different tooth sizes are available, fine to course. also its a table top tool and doesn't take up much room. the band saw is a productuction type tool, cuts thick blocks, good for ripping blocks into sheets. they both have their place in your shop- start with the scroll/jig saw. dick