How to Make Rough Lumber Into Finished Lumber

Rough sawn lumber can warp and bow as it dries. Therefore, in order to be able to finish lumber properly, boards must first be squared before they can be finished. Tools required to accomplish the process include a jointer, thickness planer and sander.

Supplies

• Thickness planer


• Jointer


• Table saw


• Sander


• Sandpaper 

1. Check each board for bending, twisting or warping.


2. Select a side of the wood that is free from knot holes.


3. Determine the grain on the edge of the wood. Run your hand lightly over it to feel which way the fibers are laying. Be careful not to get splinters.


4. Check the board for a crown. This is a convex or concave area on the face of a piece of wood. If one is found, place the crown right-side up and set the grain orientation before feeding the wood into the jointer. Several passes may be required to square the side.


5. Remove the board from the jointer and pass the opposing side into the thickness planer. Set the grain orientation on the machine, as well as the cutting depth. The cut should be set for 1/16-inch. Guide the board into the planer. Upon exit, the board will have two flattened faces.


6. Run the edges back through the jointer to trim and remove any uneven areas.


7. Cut the lumber to a required size with a table saw.


8. Further smooth the boards by running them through the jointer and planer again if they need to be smoother or flatter.


9. Use a sander to remove any loose material.