[Mike]

Sandy, for future reference both Rockler and Woodcraft run specials each month on a different type of wood. I watch the sales and purchase what I can for a good price and set it aside. Next time the sale rolls around I pick up more and this allows me to build a nice stock for a reasonable price.

 

[Mike]

I can lay one concern to rest. Those pallets of lumber that sit outside places like HD or Lowe's are all whitewood or construction grade pine. The hardwoods are delivered by a vendor who also maintains the inventory. Any dimensioned hardwood you buy has been kiln dried before sizing and should be safe to use provided there is not a radical change from the store to your shop. Rough sawn lumber is a different story.
Sandy I know my local Rockler store does wood specials every month. It may not be true chain wide. I know I saw an add for a reduced price in one of the recent mailers. To sign up for Woodcrafts emails visit woodcraft.com