Asked on Jan 24, 2014

Where to find thin hardwood boards?

Brian
by Brian
I'm looking to do some small wood projects to improve the look of my home, and what I have in mind would require the use of hardwood boards that are 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" thick. Where on Long Island can I find a supplier of boards in these thicknesses? Or will I have to plane them down myself? Thanks!
  3 answers
  • Normally you can purchase hardwood at your local lumber yard but the sizes are sized as 1/2" 3/4" etc. by widths. Your local big box stores also sell it that way. For thinner sizes most simply purchase a thickness planer and have at it. The planer method is really the best way to do it anyway. It allows for exact thickness as the boards that you purchase over the counter tend to have slightly different thicknesses depending upon the mill and the humidity of the lumber itself. Before you plane the wood, use a moisture meter to determine that all the boards being planed are the same moisture content. Different moisture readings means wood that can change its dimensions once it dries or becomes damp as it absorbs moisture in the air.
  • Christine Christine on Jan 26, 2014
    They're called Craft Boards. They're usually in the wood section of Lowe's or HD. They come in 2' to 4' long. I have also purchased unusual sizes from Northeastern Scale Lumber Co., Inc, who makes odd things like 1/2 and 1/4 rounds, molding and trim, etc., for people who do models and doll houses. They're here. www.northeasternscalelumber.com . It sounds like you can get what you want at the Big Box, because I do. I did need some odd 1/2 rounds to make beaded cabinets and some doors, so this was my option. For some of us, "simply" purchasing a thickness planer isn't an option. Optimal, but not in MY budget. I'd love to see what you're making.
  • Jeanne888 Jeanne888 on Jan 26, 2014
    If you can't find a local source, you can order from Rockler.com. They have many different species and sizes.