Wood for a first project?

[thart]

Hello everyone.

I am looking to put my tools to use after a few years of abandonment (3 young children). I have a 'basic' set of tools that will be ok to get started and I am looking at some simple shelves for a first project and then maybe a small desk for a kids bedroom.

My question is: for interior furniture what wood should I use and where is best to source it? Is there a 'minimum' standard for this type of project?

Initially I am looking to keep costs down while I gain a bit of experience so I was expecting to use pine. Is the wood that is available from, for example, Homebase or B&Q, suitable for these types of projects or does it need to be a better quality? I have a number of timber merchants nearby also.

The internet seems to be awash with DIY mums furnishing their houses with pallets and 4x2s but I have reservations about the long term quality of the final item.

Any help will be gratefully received.

 

[marcros]

i would choose something that suits the decor of your house and whatever you are making. A project in softwood is going to annoy you if everything in your house is oak! Also, the cost of timber is small in comparison to the time spent on a project.

I would avoid DIY places, and try a timber merchant. Softwood is cheaper, but i would rather work in hardwood personally- probably something like oak as a commonly available timber.

You may also like to look at something like a toy box as a project.

 

[blackrodd]

As marcross said, better to use a merchant for timber, the b&q cheaper type outlets are not such a good idea, even Wickes sell mainly spruce, which is hard to work and the knots are a bit wicked.
Pick up a good book at the library that has plans you are interested in, and include a cutting list, keeps life simple.
HTH Regards Roddders

 

[pcb1962]

Is the wood that is available from, for example, Homebase or B&Q, suitable for these types of projects or does it need to be a better quality?

Avoid the sheds at all costs, including Wickes.
Don't know whereabouts in Surrey you are, if you're anywhere near Guildford then Champion Timber on the Slyfield estate are my choice - good range of timber and unusually friendly and helpful staff. Can be a little expensive - they want just under 100 quid for an 8x4 sheet of 18mm birch ply!
If you progress onto more exotic stuff then http://www.surreytimbers.co.uk/ are well worth a visit.

 

[thart]

Thanks everyone. That's very helpful.