· 6 min read
How to Calculate Board Feet — A Complete Guide
Step-by-step instructions for calculating board feet by hand, plus why the formula works the way it does and when to use nominal vs actual dimensions.
Read more
Blog
Lumber guides and resources.
Share your knowledge about wood types, lumber calculations, and workshop tips — or read guides from the community and our library.
Write a Guide
Share your knowledge about wood types, lumber calculations, joinery, or workshop tips.
0 / 10000
From Our Library
· 8 min read
Doyle vs Scribner vs International Log Rules
A breakdown of the three main log scaling methods, when each one is used, and why the same log can give you different board foot estimates depending on which rule you apply.
Read more · 5 min read
Board Foot vs Linear Foot vs Square Foot
The difference between these three lumber measurements explained with real examples — and why confusing them can cost you money at the lumber yard.
Read more · 7 min read
Lumber Pricing Guide: How to Budget for Your Next Project
Current price ranges for common hardwoods and softwoods, what affects lumber pricing, and how to estimate total material cost before you set foot in the yard.
Read more · 5 min read
Nominal vs Actual Lumber Sizes — The Complete Reference
Why a 2x4 is not 2 by 4, a full reference table of common nominal sizes and their actual dimensions, and how to avoid calculation mistakes.
Read more · 7 min read
How to Build a Cut List for Any Woodworking Project
A practical walkthrough of planning your lumber needs from a set of plans, including accounting for waste, grain matching, and avoiding common beginner mistakes.
Read more