8/4 Elm for turning table legs: Where can I buy it

[Bob Weisner]

Hi:

I am making an end table out of Elm. I have the top and sides cut out and I want to turn the legs out of Elm. Problem is that I cannot find any 8/4 Elm . Does anyone here know where I can buy 8/4 Elm for making the table legs?

Thanks,

Bob

[Chris Padilla]

Hi Bob,

Try PM'ing a guy by the name of Steve White here on SMC. He might be able to help you out.

[Paul Downes]

Bob, have you considered using glue ups? Also, where are you located? I cut down elm trees on occasion and I might be able to get some 8/4 sawn. I sawed an elm last year on a lark because the log looked nice and was impressed with the lumber as far as it's color and grain. I got some awesome looking crotch boards that unfortunately split quite a bit. Interesting to me was that the splits followed the curve of the crotch and I ended up with some boards that have a nice form easily adapted for table legs. It might take me a while, but I will be spending a lot of time in the woods this fall and winter and if you are willing to wait I may be able to find something suitable.

[Jamie Buxton]

Hearne Hardwoods lists it http://www.hearnehardwoods.com/generalinfo.html
Baker Hardwoods has it http://www.bakerhardwoods.com/
And I see some of it on ebay.

[Bob Weisner]

Thanks for all the replys! I called Hearne Hardwoods and they only have a small quantity of Elm and what they do have is not the best quality. I emailed 2 other sawmills, but have not heard anything yet. I may have to substitute some other kind of wood for the table legs if I cannot find the Elm that I am looking for. I did call Rockler's woodworking and they do have Red Elm in stock at their store , but it is in 3/4 " thickness. I have never glued up Elm for turning. Does anyone know how well elm turns?

Thanks,

Bob