Okay gents, I’ve decided to BUY scale lumber BEFORE I cut my fingers off on my table saw, rather than wait until AFTER.
I’ve been cutting my own scale lumber for use on structures because I’ve convinced myself I’m “saving” money, but I think I’m getting smarter in my old age because I’ve decided to start buying the stuff.
Does anybody have a good supplier of tight-grained or other scale lumber for structures? preferably o-scale or g-scale, but I can use larger ho-scale pieces.
I’m getting smarter but I’m still cheap, so I’m looking for good prices.
If you are looking for Oscale, and especially G scale, check out Michaels Arts and Craft stores… They have a selection of wood pieces for various projects in the wood project departments, including mini plywood. I don’t know if it will fit your needs- they are really meant for doll houses I think but you might find something usefull other than balsa. I think AC Moore has some wood like that too.
Also Tongue depressors and popsickle sticks may work for “scale boards” for G scale.
Oh, and try asking on the Garden Railways forum if you haven’t already.
Do you have a hobby shop in your area that caters to the radio control model airplane crowd? It should have quite an extensive collection of scale lumber that is “close enough” for G and O scale.
May even save $$ buying in bulk from them over the LHS prices.
I still rip what I need from selected clear 1x strips of C or better white or sugar pine. I know what you mean about the nusience and danger though. A carpenter for 35 years and thankfully still have all my fingers intact…Luck?? .It’s the proper tool, method of use and always having total respect for the equipment that helps. But making this tiny precise material isn’t the same as ripping a 1x for sure…
I might suggest a visit to Home Depot. There is some hobbyist scale, fine grain wood strips in the molding/lumber dept. Might be suitable for the usage you intend.
If you have a produce store near by you can get some of the wooden crates. They seem to be .040-.060 thick. You can then use an Xacto slitter to cut scale widths for HO or O scale. If you are not familiar with the slitter, it has a plastic body with an opening for a handle w/ a # 11blade & an adjustable gauge on the bottom. Just slide it along the edge to slit the wood to the size you want. Jerry
I have to chime in with Kappler Scale lumber. If your LHS doesnt have it you can order direct from their website…I have ordered direct as there is no LHS in Dutch Harbor Alaska and have received my lumber quickly and with very reasonable shipping. I know that they will do custom orders if you just ask.
I actually enjoy cutting my own scale lumber. I do use a bandsaw though and am working on using the scroll saw for very fine stuff. At least I’m going to try. I’ve been able to get down to 4’ x4’ scale lumber and only have to give it a slight pull through some fine sandpaper to finish it off. I do live in a hobby shop desert, so my options are quite limited. Besides, it’s a good excuse to get out into the shop and use the toys. [;)]
If you go to Midwest Products web page check out their strip wood. I use bass wood for most everything. On the packages it will tell you what size the wood is in all the scales. Very convenient for building.
