Where to buy nice wood for projects...

[hairy_apple]

So, I wanted to make a nice wood shifter for my cruiser, but I have absolutely no idea where to get walnut or other nice woods like that.

Any ideas where I can look? Hardware stores have lumber, but not anything nice for pretty stuff...

Yeah, I could buy a nice wood shifter... but I want to make one just because I'm bored and out of work for at least another two months.

 

[titanpat57]

http://www.burlsandmore.com/

 

[PAToyota]

Do you have a local Woodcraft?

They usually have a selection of common (and uncommon) hardwoods - including smaller pieces for turning.

I'd say that there are plenty of online sources, but to me a large part of the fun is picking a piece with some interesting grain, burl, or such to it.

We have a number of various woodworking industries around here, so it is fairly easy to find someone who will give you some smaller scraps for a few bucks - or for free. Heck, I've even seen some really nice turned pieces out of firewood or stuff picked up during a walk in the woods.

 

[hairy_apple]

Huh... I am almost totally new to woodworking to be honest. I used to do it a little when I was like 12 or 13, but didn't really stick to it at all and just really love the way good working looks and have been thinking about taking it up again. I know my wife's grandfather makes amazing stuff that he turns and carves... at least he did until he had a stroke last year. Maybe I'll ask my mother in law to see where he gets it. I've found a bunch of stuff online that is exactly what I want... but I'd way rather pick it up and look at it and see it in person.

I just found a place in Auburn that looks like they might be what I need...

Thanks. I'll keep searching.

 

[KLF]

http://www.highlandhardwoods.com/

This place is very close to me, check out their list of species they carry. They have a "shorts" bin with cutoffs for really cheap, if all you need is a chunk of walnut I could easily swing by.

 

[hairy_apple]

I think I found two places down the hill a little, I think I'll head down today and check it out. If dont' have what I need, I'll take you up on that, thanks.

 

[hairy_apple]

Found a place today that has tons of nice chunks wood for turning. Like 10 minutes from my house too. Ended up buying a little chunk of oak, I kind of wanted walnut but they only had large chunks and I didn't want to spend that much on something I had no idea if I was going to be able to make happen or not.

Spent most of the day trying to make my dad's lathe work. Replaced the motor, fabricated a new mount for the new motor that didn't quite fit right. Then it ran backwards, took the motor apart and switched the leads. Finally got it running and started on my new shift knob.

Got it done in about an hour. Came out REALLY nice. I'm stoked. Going to finish it tomorrow. Get it drilled and something threaded to actually attach it.

 

[pillguy]

post some pics, we want to see your work.

Also, check out sawmillcreek.org under forums-->finishing....
the guys know alot about finishing, tools etc...

good luck....

Found a place today that has tons of nice chunks wood for turning. Like 10 minutes from my house too. Ended up buying a little chunk of oak, I kind of wanted walnut but they only had large chunks and I didn't want to spend that much on something I had no idea if I was going to be able to make happen or not.

Spent most of the day trying to make my dad's lathe work. Replaced the motor, fabricated a new mount for the new motor that didn't quite fit right. Then it ran backwards, took the motor apart and switched the leads. Finally got it running and started on my new shift knob.

Got it done in about an hour. Came out REALLY nice. I'm stoked. Going to finish it tomorrow. Get it drilled and something threaded to actually attach it.

 

[2mbb]

if you ever make it down to Berkeley, MacBeath's Hardwood has a great selection of exotic hardwoods. Back in the day when I was making shift knobs and such, they had a bin with "scraps" that they sold by the pound. These would be various sizes, and you could often find a 2"x2" piece that was cut from stock for a table leg or something similar.

 

[john_eckels]

I have purchased tiger maple and curly cherry from this place and have been really pleased. You can call or email the Paul, and tell he what you are looking for he will probably help you

570-584-5072
Email Address: pataran@curlymaple.com

http://www.curlymaple.com/default.asp


I have also purchased quarter sawn mahogany from here and have been pleased with the quality

http://walllumber.com/products.asp

 

[rusty_tlc]

If you get over to Reno Mastercraft sells exotic wood.

http://www.mastercrafthardwood.com/

That's where my son gets the wood he uses to turn shifter knobs. He made a nice one for my FJ40.

 

[sggoat]

Working on some shift knobs myself. Have a local hardwood supplier here that has tons of hobby lumber. AlvaHardwoods. Lots of exotics at a reasonable price. Will post some pics this w/e

 

[makie006]

Any ideas where I can look? Hardware stores have lumber, but not anything nice for pretty stuff.

Everytime when i need to buy im searching with the most particular online shopping store of eBay.com this is the easiest way to look what are you looking for!

 

[anthonyc12]

I think a google search of "buy exotic woods" or whatever species you need would put you on the right path if you wish to buy online.
Good luck!

 

[adamrobinson]

If you want to buy wood then contact with your local wooden craft shop..If in your area has not any shop then local search on google about wooden shops..