Newbie wood-worker buying wood: I don’t know what to ask for!

[DoubleDutch1962]

I did search the forum but couldn't find a clear answer, so I apologize if this has been asked before.


The below picture is an example but hopefully, it clarifies my question. I want to build a (e.g.) Teak wooden bench. I have detailed drawings (as opposed to the example below), which result in 5 slats (back and seat) on either side

• a back/leg,
• a seat bit and
• a front leg. 



Clearly, I have no idea how wide the (Teak) tree is the merchant can supply and to make things a bit more complicated: the slats and sides are of different thicknesses (2 and 3 cm in this example)
I have a table saw and router/planer and want to use them (it's about learning). A wood merchant about 10 miles from me stocks teak.

So the question: I want to ask him for a quote without looking stupid but what's the wood size I'm going to ask for?

You don't have to calculate it but if you could tell me HOW to calculate it I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Terry - Somerset]

Depending on the timber merchant you need to be clear what they are selling and whether they will machine the wood for you (if needed).

The process starts with slices from a tree complete with bark. Once seasoned this will typically be sawn into long boards with standard dimensions. It will then need to be planed to final dimensions.

At each stage the dimensions will "shrink" as it is processed and waste created.

It very much depends on how much of the processing you want (or are able) to do yourself. Were it a project of mine I would seek to buy sawn timber at (say) 35mm thick and plane to size for the frame, and 25mm for the slats.

The slats at 20cm wide and the sides at 35cm may be wider than the timber merchant can provide - you may need to modify the design or join two or more pieces.

 

[DoubleDutch1962]

Depending on the timber merchant you need to be clear what they are selling and whether they will machine the wood for you (if needed).

The process starts with slices from a tree complete with bark. Once seasoned this will typically be sawn into long boards with standard dimensions. It will then need to be planed to final dimensions.

At each stage the dimensions will "shrink" as it is processed and waste created.

It very much depends on how much of the processing you want (or are able) to do yourself. Were it a project of mine I would seek to buy sawn timber at (say) 35mm thick and plane to size for the frame, and 25mm for the slats.

The slats at 20cm wide and the sides at 35cm may be wider than the timber merchant can provide - you may need to modify the design or join two or more pieces.

Thank you Terry that's really useful. You say "Standard Dimension" could you give some guidance on that as that would really help answer my question I think?