I'm a complete beginner trying to build a simple desk that fits in a space of 110'' by 18''. I'm planning to sand and stain a plank of wood for this project. However, I'm unsure if Home Depot or Lowes sells planks large enough to cut down to that size. If they don't, I would really appreciate any suggestions on where to find suitable wood or what approach to take instead.
3 Answers
It's pretty unlikely you'll find a single plank that size. Instead, you might want to glue a few boards together to achieve that 18" width. It’s a simple approach and doesn’t need any fancy tools. Plus, have you considered checking out a local lumber store? They usually have better quality wood than the big chains.
If you're new to building, solid wood can be tricky because of how it expands and contracts. It's usually better for beginners to work with engineered products like plywood. Just ensure you have enough support for the structure you're building, especially if you plan to attach legs from an old desk. I've seen others create sturdy setups this way too!
For your dimensions, unless you're looking at a really pricey wood slab, which you won't find at places like Home Depot, consider gluing up some narrower boards. Using boards that are 4-6" wide will save you from the risk of cupping and keep costs down. Also, if you’re new to woodworking, using plywood is much easier to start with. You can get standard 4x8' sheets, which could work well for your desk.