Buying wood via the internet.

2071 Views 4 Replies 4 Participants Last post by mklusman, Jun 6, 2005

NewMontanaWorkshop

Discussion Starter · Jun 3, 2005

Has anyone found a good source for buying wood via the internet that doesn't jump tremendously when shipping is added?

I tried eBay, bought a piece of maple for $2.99 that ended up costing me $15.68 when all was said and done. Won't be doing that again.

Thanks.

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boxer

· #2 · Jun 4, 2005

I've always been one to want to pick out my lumber myself. I just don't like the idea of someone else choosing my wood for me. And then, if there is any damage or the quality of the wood is not what it should be, you have to deal with returns and all that jazz. Too much hassle. Fortunately, I've been blessed with a Hogan's Hardwood in my town. I can go in, pick out each board, and I'm in my shop working within the hour.
Kevin

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Bob N

· #3 · Jun 4, 2005 (Edited)

Stan,

Do you have a sawmill anywhere close by? This would be a good choice if you do.

Here is a place I keep seeing rave reviews on from other WW forums I frequent http://www.sloanswoodshop.com/default.htm

You might give them a try.

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NewMontanaWorkshop

Discussion Starter · #4 · Jun 4, 2005

Thanks for the reply Kevin and Bob.

I agree that a hands-on approach to buying lumber is the best possible way, but after you have already sorted through the same stack of lumber two or three times -- pickings get pretty slim.

Sawmills in Montana don't process a whole lot of hardwoods as far as I know. (I could be wrong). Might have to call a few of them next week and see what kind of responses I get.

Thanks again.

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mklusman

· #5 · Jun 6, 2005

Wood Sources

Here is a handy site that I picked up from another board. It may give you some alternative local sources that you didn't know about, and it will also let you find some closer mail-order sources. Distance is the critical factor when figuring the shipping costs on something heavy, like wood.
Woodfinder

Here is a company that I have used in the past when I wasn't able to locate what I was looking for locally. They are not outrageously expensive and the shipping charges usually work out to be about the same as if I had to drive 100 miles each way to the better sources around here. They also have a pretty good selection.
Wood Workers Source

All that being said, there is still no substitute for picking your own wood. I typically find that a mail order shipment usually contains a significant amount (10-20%?)of wood that I would not have chosen if I had been sorting it myself. Just remember that you're going to have to order extra "safety" stock when you figure what you need for a project.

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