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Posted

hi is there any difference purchasing wood from a lumber supplier rather then a suplier who deals specifically in instrument. i want to make an arch top with a paduk back but i cant find paduk at any instrument supplier, but i have been able to find it at general wood suppliers. will it make a sifference if i buy the wood from a general supplier?

Adam

Posted
hi is there any difference purchasing wood from a lumber supplier rather then a suplier who deals specifically in instrument. i want to make an arch top with a paduk back but i cant find paduk at any instrument supplier, but i have been able to find it at general wood suppliers. will it make a sifference if i buy the wood from a general supplier?

Adam

If you inspect :D the wood for flaws, knots, grain runout etc you should be able to pick up something near to instrument quality. You may have trouble finding book matches from a common supplier though. Some lumber suppliers do have grading systems but often you'll have to look through and select yourself. :D

It seems the main role of instrument making suppliers such as stew-mac etc. is to bring all that is needed to one location and make it easier for the maker....

Posted

Adam,

You can definately find good pieces at regular retailers. Be sure the wood is kiln dried. You should let it dry for a few months in your work area. There are things you should be looking for in the wood. In your case the straighter the grain and closer to quarter sawn the better. Be sure it is clear (of knots and the obvious flaws).

A lot of retailers do not sort wood beyond "select grade". If you are willing to look hard and maybe buy a little extra (if only part of the board is acceptable). It takes time but it is the best way to buy wood. Learn as much as you can, and talk to the guys selling the wood(they will probably give you a lot of good info). Really if you buy from a musical grade set, you are paying for the time to select the wood and prepair it as well as handling. You can cut and surface(Barring lack of tools) and learn how to select and take the time to dry the wood yourself.

Good huntng mister, Rich :D

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