Where do you get your wood for projects

[Chris Seymour]

Hi All,

Just got a new Kreg Jig.  I am curious as to where you get your plywoods and hardwoods for many of these projects?

Thanks.

Chris

[Ken Darga]

I also, have found some nice pieces of lumber, at home centers.

It may take sorting, but it's worth the effort, when you know what you desire.

(I'm fortunate to reside near several sources, within 10 miles and a couple within 20 miles).

A home center near me, has materials, that others don't stock.

They also can order, some materials, that I need---( I just ask).

Recently, I completed a project, using ''1x8 quarter-sawn clear pine'' (knotless)---

they were the only supplier in the region, who had it or could get it.

When I need edge joined large width oak panels, this is my go-to place.

Some items may cost a little more, in smaller quantities---

but, it's not worth it for me to scour the country or drive long distances, to obtain it.

[Joan Gribskov]

If you're on the West Coast, try Hardwood Industries - they have shops in Sherwood, OR and in the Seattle area.  My local lumber store also gets shipments from them 2 days/week and I can always count on quality hardwoods are reasonable prices.  The great thing about these shops, too, is that you're working with people who know wood, not just someone who needed a job. :)

[Jay Boutwell]

Joan this one of my favorites and your are right Joan, you always get good service and excellent material.
 
Joan Gribskov said:

If you're on the West Coast, try Hardwood Industries - they have shops in Sherwood, OR and in the Seattle area.  My local lumber store also gets shipments from them 2 days/week and I can always count on quality hardwoods are reasonable prices.  The great thing about these shops, too, is that you're working with people who know wood, not just someone who needed a job. :)

[Robert Brennan]

Chris,

In Brisbane QLD, you can/I get timber from the following:-

Local Bunnings, local Masters for common plywood and timbers nothing of real impressive craftsman ship timber is available though.

Woodworking Expos,

Now this is were it all happens. For really nice featured timber. Use this platform to introduce yourself and then deal with suppliers again later. Even if you only take a business card first up.

A couple of hints, go prepared, have a trolley, check everything out and return on the last day when they are packing up, many bargains can be obtained, be prepared to store your purchase if need be. By far the most economical way to buy timber.

Local sawmills, Have a good look around their retail stock areas there is usually some really interesting materials there. Beware, there are some "gold Plated" showrooms for the unwary, meaning you will pay big $.

Telephone,

Ring fellow woodworkers, and work the established sources, and then make some more contacts on the way

ebay

Troll through ebay and see whats going, compare the prices and PU location to determine value for money.

Local rubbish skips,

No joke, take a look around kitchen cupboard manufacturers skip bins and you will find all sorts of material, mostly 1 offs so don't expect too much. However if you make a lot of setup jigs and or just want to experiment the price is right.

Roadside cleanups and garage sales

Always worth a look if there is something of interest being displayed.

Regards

Robert Brennan.