Where to buy speciality wood for craft/restoration/construction projects?

wood panels closeupEric asks via the Facebook:

Where in the capitol district can I find some fine wood for a restoration project? More specifically I need a few flat pieces of walnut, about a half inch thick. The craft stores don't have anything but pine, and there is nothing at Home Depot.

It seems like there have to be at least a few places to buy this kind of stuffy -- it's just a matter of knowing where to look.

So... do you know where to look? Please share!

Comments

Curtis Lumber in Ballston Spa.

Jamie beat me to it. They have a whole room full of specialty hardwoods.

Agreed on Curtis Lumber on Rt. 67 in Ballston Spa. That's their headquarters store for the whole chain, and they have quite a hardwoods/specialty woods section with very knowledgeable personnel.

Depending on the nature of your project, I'd also recommend the Historic Albany Foundation's "Architecture Parts Warehouse." An incredible selection of restored and salvage wood and I find it a great way to find a few signature pieces I may need that the modern chains just don't sell. Additionally, they have a ton of other cool stuff, if you are into historic, salvage wares for your housing needs. Plus, you get to support a non-profit and the preservation of our region's history. http://historic-albany.org/warehouse.html

While not typically a motivating factor for most folks, I'd personally steer clear of Curtis Lumber, who's management has a unsavory conservative bent to their professed politics, which keeps me away. But, I can't vouch for your politics and that may doubly impress you desire to visit :)

Thank you for the Curtis Lumber suggestion - fine stuff, although I did not end up going with them I will remember them. (I needed such a small piece I ended up buying a sample from woodworkersource.com)

Eric
If you are looking for unique cuts and sizes, this is the place to check out.

www.hanklelumber.com/

These guys are old school.

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