Emma Brooks
When venturing into woodturning, finding the right source for quality wood is crucial for successful projects. Wood for turning can be purchased from a variety of suppliers, including specialty woodworking stores, online retailers, and local lumberyards. Specialty stores often carry a curated selection of exotic and domestic hardwoods specifically suited for turning, while online platforms like eBay, Etsy, and dedicated woodworking websites offer a wide range of options with the convenience of home delivery. Local lumberyards and sawmill operations may provide more affordable, locally sourced wood, though the selection might be more limited. Additionally, woodturning clubs and community forums can be valuable resources for finding recommendations and even sourcing reclaimed or salvaged wood, which adds a unique character to your creations. Always consider the type of wood, its moisture content, and its suitability for your project when making a purchase.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Local Wood Suppliers | Many local lumberyards and woodworking stores offer a variety of wood species suitable for turning. Examples include hardwoods like maple, oak, walnut, and exotic woods. |
| Online Retailers | Websites like Woodcraft, Craft Supplies USA, and Exotic Lumber Inc. provide a wide selection of domestic and exotic woods specifically for woodturning. |
| Specialty Woodturning Stores | Stores dedicated to woodturning, such as The Woodturning Store or Woodturners Wonders, offer curated selections of blanks, burls, and rare woods. |
| Salvaged/Reclaimed Wood | Salvage yards, reclaimed wood suppliers, or local tree services may offer unique, character-rich wood pieces for turning. |
| Woodturning Clubs/Forums | Joining local woodturning clubs or online forums (e.g., Woodturner Forum) can provide access to member sales, swaps, or recommendations for sourcing wood. |
| Auctions/Marketplaces | Platforms like eBay, Etsy, or Facebook Marketplace often list woodturning blanks, exotic woods, and rare finds. |
| Direct from Mills | Some sawmills or lumber mills sell directly to consumers, offering fresh-cut wood at competitive prices. |
| Exotic Wood Importers | Importers specializing in exotic woods (e.g., Cook Woods, Hearne Hardwoods) provide unique species for advanced turners. |
| Woodturning Kits | Pre-packaged woodturning kits (e.g., pen blanks, bowl blanks) are available from various suppliers for beginners or specific projects. |
| Seasoned vs. Green Wood | Suppliers offer both seasoned (dried) and green (fresh-cut) wood, with green wood being more affordable but requiring additional drying time. |
| Price Range | Prices vary widely based on species, rarity, and size, ranging from a few dollars for common blanks to hundreds for rare exotics. |
| Shipping Considerations | Online purchases may incur shipping costs, especially for heavy or large pieces, so factor this into the total cost. |
| Sustainability | Many suppliers now offer sustainably sourced or certified woods (e.g., FSC-certified) for environmentally conscious turners. |
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What You'll Learn
Local lumberyards and specialty wood stores
Local lumberyards are often the first stop for woodturners seeking raw materials. These establishments typically stock a variety of domestic hardwoods like maple, oak, and walnut in standard dimensions, which can be suitable for smaller turning projects. When visiting a lumberyard, ask the staff about their selection of kiln-dried wood, as this reduces the risk of warping or cracking during the turning process. Additionally, inquire about offcuts or shorter lengths, which are often more affordable and perfectly adequate for bowl blanks or spindle work. Pro tip: Bring a moisture meter to ensure the wood’s moisture content is below 12% for optimal turning conditions.
Specialty wood stores, on the other hand, cater specifically to woodworkers and turners, offering a curated selection of exotic and rare woods. These stores often carry burl caps, spalted wood, and figured pieces that can elevate your turning projects from functional to artistic. Prices here tend to be higher, but the quality and uniqueness of the wood justify the investment for special pieces. Look for stores that provide detailed information about the wood’s origin, hardness, and working properties to ensure compatibility with your turning goals. For instance, a dense wood like ebony requires sharp tools and slower speeds, while softer woods like butternut are more forgiving for beginners.
One advantage of shopping locally is the ability to inspect the wood in person. Feel the grain, check for defects, and assess the color and figure to ensure it meets your vision. Local stores also often offer custom milling services, allowing you to order wood in specific thicknesses or dimensions tailored to your lathe’s capacity. For example, a 2-inch thick bowl blank is ideal for most mid-sized lathes, while thinner pieces can be used for hollow forms or decorative items. Building a relationship with local suppliers can also lead to access to rare finds or discounted bulk purchases.
For those new to woodturning, start with local lumberyards to build your skills on affordable, readily available woods before graduating to specialty stores. Experiment with different species to understand their working properties—for instance, cherry is known for its smooth finish, while hickory’s strength makes it ideal for tool handles. Always prioritize sustainability by choosing suppliers that source their wood responsibly, whether through FSC certification or reclaimed materials. This not only supports ethical practices but also ensures a consistent supply of high-quality wood for future projects.
In conclusion, local lumberyards and specialty wood stores each offer distinct advantages for woodturners. Lumberyards provide accessibility and affordability, making them ideal for practice and utility pieces, while specialty stores cater to the artisan seeking unique materials for standout creations. By combining the resources of both, turners can expand their skills, explore diverse woods, and bring their creative visions to life. Always remember to handle and store your wood properly to maintain its integrity until you’re ready to turn it into something extraordinary.
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Online retailers and woodworking suppliers
Online retailers have revolutionized the way woodturners source their materials, offering a vast selection of domestic and exotic woods that cater to both beginners and seasoned artisans. Websites like Woodcraft and Rockler stand out for their curated collections, which often include pre-cut blanks specifically designed for turning. These platforms not only provide high-quality wood but also bundle it with detailed guides and tutorials, making them ideal for those new to the craft. For instance, a 3-inch bowl blank of maple or walnut typically ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the species and grain quality.
While large retailers offer convenience, specialized suppliers like Bell Forest Products and The Wood Database cater to enthusiasts seeking rare or sustainably sourced woods. These suppliers often collaborate directly with mills and reforestation programs, ensuring ethical practices. For example, Bell Forest’s spalted beech or birdseye maple blanks, priced around $25–$35 each, are prized for their unique patterns and textures. Such suppliers also provide certifications of origin, appealing to eco-conscious turners.
For budget-conscious buyers, platforms like eBay and Etsy offer a mix of affordability and variety, though due diligence is required. Look for sellers with high ratings and detailed product descriptions, as the quality can vary widely. A pro tip: filter searches for "woodturning blanks" and "free shipping" to maximize value. However, beware of overly cheap options, as they may be prone to cracks or warping, which can ruin a project.
Lastly, subscription services like Exotic Wood Zone’s monthly box introduce turners to new species without the hassle of individual sourcing. For $50–$70 per month, subscribers receive a curated selection of 2–3 blanks, often including rare finds like zebrawood or purpleheart. This model not only sparks creativity but also builds a diverse wood inventory over time. Whether you prioritize convenience, sustainability, or cost, online retailers and suppliers offer tailored solutions for every woodturning need.
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Salvaged wood sources and reclaimed timber
Salvaged wood offers a treasure trove of unique grain patterns, rich patinas, and historical character for woodturners seeking something beyond the ordinary. Unlike freshly milled lumber, salvaged wood carries the marks of its past life, whether it’s the weathered gray of a barn beam or the nail holes from a century-old floorboard. This material isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about sustainability. By repurposing wood from demolished buildings, fallen trees, or industrial scraps, turners reduce demand for new timber and give discarded materials a second life. However, sourcing salvaged wood requires knowing where to look and how to assess its quality for turning projects.
One of the most accessible sources for salvaged wood is local demolition sites and construction salvage yards. Many cities have reclamation centers that specialize in rescuing materials from old homes, factories, or barns before they’re hauled to landfills. For example, a deconstructed farmhouse might yield oak beams, maple flooring, or even exotic hardwoods like teak from vintage furniture. When visiting these sites, bring a moisture meter to check for rot or excessive dampness, as salvaged wood often needs time to acclimate indoors before it’s ready for turning. Also, inquire about the wood’s history—some pieces may contain hidden nails or screws, so a metal detector can be a valuable tool.
For those who prefer a more curated selection, online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, or specialized woodturning forums often list salvaged wood blanks. These sellers typically cut and dry the wood, reducing the risk of warping or cracking. However, this convenience comes at a premium, so weigh the cost against the time and effort saved. Another option is to partner with arborists or tree removal services, who frequently have access to large, discarded logs from storm-damaged or diseased trees. Walnut, cherry, and cedar are common finds, though species vary by region. Always ask for permission before taking wood, and be prepared to process the logs yourself, as arborists rarely cut them into turning-ready sizes.
Working with salvaged wood isn’t without challenges. Older wood may contain hidden defects like insect damage, cracks, or embedded metal. To mitigate these risks, start by turning smaller test pieces to understand the wood’s behavior. Use sharp tools and take light cuts to avoid stressing brittle or uneven grain. For larger projects, consider stabilizing cracked wood with epoxy or incorporating the flaws as design elements—a knot hole or a weathered edge can become a striking feature in a bowl or vase. Finally, embrace the unpredictability of salvaged wood; its imperfections often tell a story that new lumber can’t match.
Incorporating salvaged wood into your turning practice not only expands your creative possibilities but also aligns with eco-conscious values. By rescuing materials from the waste stream, you contribute to a more sustainable craft while producing one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you’re scouring salvage yards, networking with arborists, or browsing online listings, the hunt for reclaimed timber is as rewarding as the final turned object. With patience, resourcefulness, and a willingness to experiment, salvaged wood can become the cornerstone of your most distinctive work.
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Exotic wood vendors and international suppliers
For woodturners seeking rare and unique materials, exotic wood vendors and international suppliers open doors to a world of possibilities. These sources offer species like cocobolo, zebrawood, and purpleheart, prized for their striking grain patterns, vibrant colors, and exceptional hardness. While domestic suppliers often carry a selection of exotics, dedicated vendors and international sources provide access to a far broader range and rarer finds.
Sourcing from international suppliers requires careful consideration. Researching reputable vendors is crucial, as is understanding import regulations and potential shipping delays. Websites like Exotic Wood Zone and Woodworkers Source specialize in exotic species, offering detailed descriptions, moisture content information, and customer reviews.
Beyond online retailers, exploring international wood auctions and connecting with overseas woodworkers can yield unexpected treasures. Platforms like eBay and specialized woodworking forums often feature listings from international sellers. However, exercise caution when dealing with unfamiliar vendors, verifying authenticity and ensuring compliance with CITES regulations for protected species.
Consider joining online communities dedicated to exotic woodturning. These groups provide valuable insights into reputable suppliers, share tips on working with specific species, and often facilitate direct connections with international vendors. Remember, while the allure of exotic woods is undeniable, responsible sourcing and sustainability should always be paramount.
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Woodturning clubs and community marketplaces
Woodturning clubs are treasure troves for sourcing unique and locally available wood. These clubs often have members who are avid wood collectors, arborists, or even sawmill owners, providing access to rare and exotic species that aren’t typically found in commercial stores. For instance, a club in the Pacific Northwest might offer maple burl or madrone, while a Southern club could connect you with live-edge pecan or mesquite. Joining a club not only grants you access to these resources but also immerses you in a community of like-minded turners who share tips on seasoning, storage, and sourcing. Many clubs organize group buys, reducing costs and ensuring you get high-quality wood in quantities suitable for both small projects and larger endeavors.
Community marketplaces, both online and offline, are another goldmine for woodturners seeking affordable and diverse materials. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local woodworking forums often list wood scraps, salvaged logs, or even entire trees removed from properties. These listings are frequently priced lower than retail, and you can often negotiate for better deals. For example, a homeowner might offer a fallen oak tree for free if you’re willing to haul it away. When using these platforms, always inspect the wood for cracks, insect damage, or rot, and ask the seller about its history to ensure it’s suitable for turning. Pro tip: Bring a moisture meter to check the wood’s dryness, as freshly cut wood may require months of air-drying before it’s ready for the lathe.
One of the most compelling reasons to engage with woodturning clubs and community marketplaces is the opportunity to experiment with unconventional materials. Clubs often host workshops or demonstrations where members bring in unusual woods—think spalted beech, desert ironwood, or even rescued urban timber from construction sites. These materials can add a unique story to your projects, making them stand out. For instance, a bowl turned from a 100-year-old barn beam carries both aesthetic appeal and historical significance. Community marketplaces, on the other hand, may offer non-traditional options like fruitwoods, roots, or even exotic imports at a fraction of the cost of specialty retailers.
While these sources are invaluable, there are a few cautions to keep in mind. Wood from community marketplaces may not always be properly identified, so familiarize yourself with wood species or bring a knowledgeable friend when sourcing. Additionally, some salvaged wood might contain hidden nails or screws, so always scan with a metal detector before turning. In clubs, be mindful of etiquette—don’t monopolize resources, and always offer to share or trade when possible. Lastly, remember that sustainability is key. Prioritize locally sourced wood to reduce your carbon footprint and support regional ecosystems. By balancing these considerations, you can make the most of woodturning clubs and community marketplaces while contributing positively to the craft and the environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Local lumberyards, specialty woodworking stores, and hardwood dealers are great places to start. Additionally, check out community sawmills or woodturning clubs, as they often have connections to quality wood suppliers.
Yes, many online retailers specialize in wood for turning, such as Woodcraft, Exotic Lumber, and eBay. Ensure you read reviews and check for quality guarantees before purchasing.
Look for local tree removal services, construction sites, or Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace listings for free or low-cost wood. Also, consider salvaging wood from fallen trees or pallets, but always ensure it’s safe and suitable for turning.
