In the video titled “Don’t Buy Wood Here || Beginners Guide to Buying Wood,” created by Bourbon Moth Woodworking, the narrator offers valuable advice on where to buy wood specifically for furniture making. The video warns viewers to steer clear of a certain store shown in the video due to the poor quality and limited selection of wood. Instead, the narrator suggests exploring other options such as the Hardwood Center, which offers a wider range of hardwoods and potentially better quality plywood. In addition, the narrator mentions Wood Castle on Highway 34 as another potential place to find better wood. The video also provides helpful tips on what to look for when selecting wood and explains important factors such as moisture content and different cuts of veneer. Overall, this guide serves as a great resource for beginners in the woodworking field who are searching for the best places to purchase high-quality wood for their projects.
Where not to buy wood
Avoid the store shown in the video
The video titled “Don’t Buy Wood Here || Beginners Guide to Buying Wood” created by Bourbon Moth Woodworking advises against buying wood from the store shown in the video. The narrator highlights the poor selection and quality of wood at this store, specifically for furniture makers. The video showcases examples of overpriced plywood with imperfections and limited options for hardwood. It is clear that this store is not suitable for those looking to purchase wood for furniture making.
Big box stores are not suitable for furniture makers
The narrator also emphasizes that big box stores, while great for other purposes, are not the best option for furniture makers. These stores may have a wide range of wood, but it is primarily geared towards construction rather than furniture making. The narrator points out that the quality of the wood at big box stores is not up to par for furniture building, and the pricing may be exorbitant. With a focus on volume and quantity, these stores prioritize getting as much product out the door as possible, which often leads to a decrease in quality. Therefore, it is recommended to explore other options when looking for wood for furniture making.
Finding better options
Check out the Hardwood Center
One better option for buying wood is the Hardwood Center. This local supplier is known for its wider selection of hardwoods and the potential for better quality plywood. While specifics about the Hardwood Center are not provided in the video, it is mentioned that the narrator made a phone call to inquire about prices and the availability of different hardwoods. The staff seemed helpful and knowledgeable, giving the impression that they could provide guidance to customers seeking assistance.
Consider visiting Wood Castle on Highway 34
Another potential location for finding better wood is Wood Castle, located on Highway 34. Although there is no extensive information provided about Wood Castle in the video, it is mentioned as a place worth visiting for those in search of superior wood. The narrator suggests that Wood Castle may have a wider selection of hardwoods and potentially better quality wood compared to the store shown in the video.
Visiting the hardwood center
Wide selection of hardwoods and plywood
The hardwood center, as depicted in the video, offers a vast array of hardwoods and plywood. The narrator showcases the numerous aisles filled with different types of wood, emphasizing that this is just the tip of the iceberg. The hardwood center’s focus on providing a wide selection ensures that customers have a range of options to choose from when selecting wood for their projects.
Seek help and guidance from the staff
In addition to the extensive selection, one advantage of visiting the hardwood center is the availability of knowledgeable staff. The narrator mentions speaking to someone named Lee over the phone, who proved to be friendly and helpful. Lee was willing to assist the narrator in person and answer any questions they had about different types of wood and equipment needed for woodworking. The presence of skilled staff enhances the customer experience and makes the purchasing process easier for those who may not be familiar with woodworking terminology or techniques.
Narrator plans to visit in person
The video concludes with the narrator expressing their intention to visit the hardwood center in person. By doing so, they hope to receive further assistance and guidance from the staff. This decision emphasizes the importance of physically visiting the hardwood center to have a hands-on experience and make informed decisions about selecting the right wood for furniture making.
Evaluating wood quality
Surface and dimensions of the lumber
When picking out wood at the hardwood center or any other supplier, it is crucial to pay attention to the surface and dimensions of the lumber. The narrator mentions that at the hardwood center, the lumber is surfaced to 13/16, with one straight edge. This information helps customers understand the initial state of the wood and how much preparation it may require before use. By examining the surface and dimensions, potential issues can be identified early on.
Checking for twist, bow, cracks/splits, knots, and discoloration
When evaluating wood for quality, it is essential to inspect several factors. The narrator advises viewers to look for any signs of twist, bow, cracks/splits, knots, or discoloration. These imperfections can affect the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the final furniture piece. By carefully examining the wood, customers can ensure they select the best pieces for their projects.
Importance of moisture content for furniture building
Moisture content is a crucial consideration for furniture building. The narrator emphasizes that wood with a moisture content of 6-9% is preferred. This range ensures that the wood is adequately cured and minimizes the risk of warping or shrinking after the furniture is built. Understanding the importance of moisture content helps customers make informed decisions about the suitability of wood for their projects.
Understanding measurements for rough sawn hardwood
The narrator also mentions that rough sawn hardwood measurements are different from conventional inches. Instead, rough sawn hardwood is measured in quarters. This distinction may confuse those who are new to woodworking. Therefore, it is essential to familiarize oneself with the measurement terminology and understand how it relates to the dimensions required for a project.
Buying wood in board feet
When purchasing wood from a hardwood supplier, the narrator notes that they often sell it in board feet rather than per piece or linear foot. Board feet is a unit of measurement used specifically to quantify the volume of lumber. Understanding board feet and how to calculate it allows customers to determine the amount of wood they need accurately. The video suggests using the app “Board Foot Easy” as a helpful tool for calculating board feet and the cost of the wood.
Calculating wood requirements
Using the Board Foot Easy app
To ensure accurate calculations for wood requirements, the video recommends using the Board Foot Easy app. This app simplifies the process of determining the total board feet needed for a project. By inputting the necessary measurements, customers can receive accurate estimates of the amount of wood required. This helps prevent underestimating and running out of wood or overestimating and purchasing unnecessary additional stock.
Considering 10% extra wood
To account for any mistakes or unforeseen issues during the woodworking process, the video suggests adding 10% extra wood to the total board feet calculated. This safety margin ensures that there is enough wood to complete the project without having to make additional trips to the supplier. It is always better to have a surplus rather than a shortage when it comes to purchasing wood.
Understanding plywood grades
A to D grading system
Plywood is graded using an A to D grading system, with A being the best quality and D being the lowest. The grading system helps customers understand the level of imperfections present in the plywood sheets. A-grade plywood generally has minimal defects, such as small knots and discoloration, while D-grade plywood may have more significant knots, splits, or discoloration. Understanding the grading system allows customers to choose the appropriate plywood for their projects based on their aesthetic and quality preferences.
Grading for both front and back sides
It is important to note that plywood is graded for both the front and back sides. The grading information is typically indicated on the front side while the backside is usually labeled with a number. Customers should be mindful of this labeling, as it can help them select the appropriate plywood for their specific needs. Selecting plywood with the desired grading on both sides ensures a consistent appearance throughout the furniture piece.
Different cuts of veneer
Veneer is a thin layer of wood applied to plywood to enhance its appearance and strength. The video briefly mentions the different cuts of veneer available, such as flat sawn, plain sawn, rift sawn, and quarter sawn. Each cut produces a distinct look and comes with its own costs. Becoming familiar with the different cuts of veneer assists customers in selecting plywood that aligns with their desired aesthetic for their furniture project.
Choosing the right plywood
Consider the cut of the veneer
When choosing plywood, it is crucial to consider the cut of the veneer. Each cut, such as flat sawn, plain sawn, rift sawn, and quarter sawn, has a different appearance and pattern. By understanding the characteristics of each cut, customers can select plywood that best matches their intended aesthetic. Choosing the right cut of veneer contributes to the overall visual appeal of the furniture piece.
Matching the plywood to your project
In addition to considering the cut of the veneer, it is essential to match the plywood to your specific project. Different furniture pieces may require different qualities of plywood based on their structural requirements, appearance, and intended use. By understanding the specific needs of your project, you can make an informed decision about which plywood is most suitable.
Tips for cost-saving
Ask staff to cut off cracked or knotted parts
To save costs when purchasing wood, the video suggests asking the staff at the supplier to cut off any cracked or knotted parts of the boards. This allows customers to purchase high-quality wood while avoiding potential defects. By removing these imperfections early on, customers can reduce waste and save money on unusable pieces of wood.
Utilize return policies for unused, uncut boards
Some hardwood centers may have return policies that allow for the return of unused, uncut boards. This feature can be advantageous if customers accidentally overestimate their wood requirements or change their plans. Utilizing these return policies ensures that customers only pay for the wood they actually use, preventing unnecessary expenses.
Conclusion
Importance of choosing the right wood
Selecting the right wood is crucial for furniture makers. Poor-quality wood can lead to structural issues, shorten the lifespan of furniture pieces, and compromise their overall appearance. By investing time and effort into finding high-quality wood, furniture makers can ensure the durability, beauty, and functional longevity of their creations.
Avoiding poor quality options
The video provides valuable insights into where not to buy wood, such as the store shown in the video and big box stores in general. These locations often prioritize volume over quality, resulting in limited options and subpar wood for furniture makers. Avoiding poor quality options ensures that furniture makers are starting their projects on the right foot.
Getting guidance from experts
Visiting a local hardwood center, like the one mentioned in the video, allows customers to seek guidance from knowledgeable staff members. These experts can assist with selecting the right wood, understanding measurements, calculating requirements, and making informed decisions. Having access to their expertise ensures that furniture makers feel supported and confident in their wood-buying choices.
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You can find more woodworking plans and merchandise on my Patreon page at /bourbonmothwoodworking. I also offer personalized video shoutouts on Cameo.
Below are some useful links to tools and supplies for your woodworking projects:
- 3M Cubitron Sandpaper: [Link]
- Board feet app: [Link]
- Spec Ops Hammer: [Link]
- Spec Ops Tape Measure: [Link]
- Spec Ops Pry Bar: [Link]
- Spec Ops Chisels: [Link]
- Spec Ops Screw Drivers: [Link]
- Spec ops utility Knife: [Link]
- Eye Protection: [Link]
- Woodpeckers square: [Link]
- Nicks Handmade Boots: [Link]
- ISOtunes Bluetooth Hearing Protection (10% off code- BOURBONMOTH10): [Link]
- Bits & Bits Precision Cutting Tools (10% off code- BOURBONBITS): [Link]
- Flush Trim Router Bit: [Link]
- RZ Mask (15% off code: BOURBONMOTH15): [Link]
- Total Boat Epoxy: [Link]
- Firm Grip Work Gloves: [Link]
- PowerPro Fasteners: [Link]
- Pony Jorgensen Clamps: [Link]
- Grizzly Tools: [Link]
- Table Saw: [Link]
- Jointer: [Link]
- Planer: [Link]
- Dust Collector: [Link]
- Air Filtration: [Link]
- Band Saw: [Link]
- Drill Press: [Link]
- Lathe: [Link]