Sourcing timber in the north east of England?

[ShatnersBassoon 22]

I’m trying to find somewhere where I can get wood in the desired lengths and thickness needed for a guitar. Sourcing a blank for a maple cap is proving particularly difficult for example. Any recommendations of places? Cheers.

[Andyjr1515 835]

On 21/02/2018 at 12:11 PM, ShatnersBassoon said:

I’m trying to find somewhere where I can get wood in the desired lengths and thickness needed for a guitar. Sourcing a blank for a maple cap is proving particularly difficult for example. Any recommendations of places? Cheers.

Hi and welcome!

Like all things, it depends where you are pitching things but David Dyke is an excellent UK supplier.  He doesn't have pics on his otherwise comprehensive website but if you are after, say, a figured top, he will take a photo of the piece before you have to commit.  The other one I use (but there are a reasonable number of specialist suppliers) is www.exotichardwoodsukltd.com.  Some of the stuff is very expensive, but for tops and acoustic sets you see good shots of the actual pieces.

I also do use ebay from time to time - tends to be cheaper than either of the above and, again, you get to see what you are buying although suppose there's maybe more possibility that the wood may not be ideal for the job in terms of cut or seasoning (less of a problem with tops but sometimes an issue with neck woods).

Hope this helps!

Andy

[ShatnersBassoon 22]

Thanks! I have got most of the wood now (sourced partly from furniture so it’s all a bit Blue Peter) but I do need some fretboard material. I will check both out, and would be nice to go for posher woods second time around. I did notice blanks on eBay recently and did give it a thought, so looks like it could be another good source. 

Edited February 25, 2018 by ShatnersBassoon