Replies

1. 
   Handrubbed | Jul 30, 2006 06:56am | #1

   I had the same need recently, for the same purpose.  All I could find was construction grade.  I sorted through the pile at the local big box and came up with some acceptable stuff.  I noticed a couple of things that you should be aware of:

   First, this wood is basically green, from the forest....it is wringing wet.  Not sure if any attempt to dry it is made.   You will have to cut your pieces oversized and let it dry for a while.  Every time I cut a mortise or tenon it is fuzzy from the moisture.

   I bought cedar decking which is about 1" stock, 2X in 6 and 8 inch widths, and 4X4.  The 4X4 is basically the heart of the log and really clear, so you can make the best pieces in your furniture such as arms and legs from it.  I laminated 2X to make the rear leg / back for my garden bench.

   The glue of my choice was Gorilla, since it will actually thrive on the high moisture of the cedar and hold up well in the weather.

   Lastly, hand planing, my preference, was a futile effort on this wet wood.  I am using the 3M Sandblaster non-loading paper in 150 grit to smooth my surfaces.

2. 
   MaxYak | Jul 31, 2006 08:32pm | #2

   I'm not sure where you are, but it is relatively easy to get high quality cedar in the Northwest.  There are a variety of independent mills that specialize in the stuff.

   I've had good luck at a place in Issaquah, WA, called Issaquah Lumber Company.  They carry everything from construction grade to the quartersawn clear cedar heartwood I used to carve a few kayak paddles.

   To the man with a hammer, all the world is a nail.
1. 
   BarryO | Aug 01, 2006 03:31am | #4

   I'm not sure where you are, but it is relatively easy to get high quality cedar in the Northwest.  There are a variety of independent mills that specialize in the stuff.

   Sure it is.  Availability is very much a regional thing.  Getting any type of WRC around here is pretty straightforward.

   On the other hand, the what passes for cherry is pretty bad, and pretty expensive.  'gotta be back east to get good, reasonably-priced cherry lumber.

2. 
   John_D | Aug 01, 2006 08:59am | #5

   I'll be checking out that Issaquah Lumber Company, do you have a tip for any mills turning out hard maple?  I am patient so can dry it, and have machines so can mill it, but the prices at Crosscut and Hardwoods Supply are awfully high.  woodfinder doesn't point to any sawmills around here (Seattle area, Eastside even better)My goal is for my work to outlast me.  Expect my joinery to get simpler as time goes by.

3. 
   Garry | Jul 31, 2006 09:42pm | #3

   We have a local mill here that can produce or has on hand mos anything you need in white cedar. I live in Michigan's Upper Pennisula about 50 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge. If you ever come up my way I would be happy to take you to the mill.

   Garry

   http://www.superwoodworks.com