On all of my building tutorials, I list out the wood sizes that are needed for the DIY project under the materials needed. I've received some questions from readers about what those lumber sizes actually mean. And when I first started learning about woodworking I didn't know what they meant either.
What does 1x8 mean? How wide is 1x2 lumber?
Logically, 1x2 would mean the wood is 1 inch x 2 inches right? However, the actual dimensions of the wood are ¾ inch x 1 ½ inch and the nominal size is 1x2. The difference has to do with the sawmill process and shrinkage of the wood.
I decided to put together the below handy chart of actual lumber sizes for any new DIYers who are just learning about woodworking and how to build and also as a quick reference for myself and anyone else that needs to figure out building measurements.
Keep in mind that this chart is for softwood dimensional lumber sizes (not hardwoods) which are very common and mainly what I use for my woodworking projects.
Well I hope this chart will be useful and handy! I'm thinking about doing some more "Intro to Woodworking" posts in the future, let me know if you think it would be helpful! I know they are very basic and not the most fun posts, but definitely an important part of getting to the fun part of actually building and making things!
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If a plan says 2x8, do I measure by the plan or by the lumber size?
Hi Jim, I'm not sure what you're asking exactly. If the plan says 2x8, then you want to use a 2x8 which is what it will be called at the store when you buy it. The actual size of the 2x8 is 1.5" x 7.25" Hope that makes sense!
Thanks for the advice. I’m brand new.
You're welcome!
Angela
I have a Kreg jig. Do you ever try to join timber that is not exactly 3/4”,1/2” or 1”. I use recycled timbers, soft and hard, and after planing cutting the thickness can be well off these measurements.
I can’t find any info on what to do with non-standard sixes timber
Yes I have, but it was usually only around 1/4" off or so...what I would do is adjust the kreg jig settings to be in between the measurement marks on the kreg jig and then I'd test it out on scrap wood (that was the same thickness as my project) to see if it was the correct depth. Does that make sense?
Hi just wanted to ask if I’m building for outside use, do you recommend using pressure treated wood?
If it's something you are going to be touching, I'd stay away from pressure treated wood because of the chemicals. If it's a fence or something you won't really be touching often, then that's ok to use! You can always use cedar which is a naturally weather resistant wood. Or use untreated wood with an exterior stain or sealant.
Thank you, so much for doing the charts and guides. My ex husband used to do the making and building, I helped, but only wuth the stuff he let me. I have always wanted to start making things and now with your help I can and will be able to. That outdoor couch is on the top of my list. I haven't looked through your entire blog yet, but di you sew, crochet or knit as well, I just got a new to me sewing machine, and I if I can brave it I may buy fabrics and make my own cushions, but only if I don't sew my fingers lol. Thanks again for the time and effort you put into your blog. 🤪
I'm so happy to hear that and that this has been helpful!! 🙂 I don't sew or knit but I really want to learn! That would be awesome if you could make your own cushions!!
@Jo,
Omg I am right there with you. I was raised with some major “learned helplessness” issues and as an adult relied on my ex-husband to do all of the home improvements that were needed. However, a lot of them have been left half finished or less, and I am now finding myself having to try and learn a lot to try and finish them. Totally lost with power tools, lumber sizing, even just going and getting paint at the store was daunting!
Hello Angela, I’m recently retired am just starting to explore woodworking. Your blog looks very promising. I have few pellets available and was wondering how I can utilize the wood from these pellets, do you have any suggestions? Also, what are the few tools I should invest in to make basic projects to start. What's good starting drill for female as well. Thank you!
I have some great resources on beginner tools here: https://angelamariemade.com/5-essential-woodworking-tools-for-beginners/. Pallet wood is a great resource to start with, I don't have any projects using pallet wood, unfortunately.
Just found your resources and excited to play around and make some projects! Will bookmark! Thanks in advance for your help!
That is so nice to hear, thank you!
What type of nail gun do you use?
It is a Ryobi 18gauge, here is an affiliate link with more details if you are interested: https://rstyle.me/+peVFgpvA2qGpmYqQwbLrWg