So in working on my baskets I noticed a difference in the thickness of the boards I bought (at a big box store). The boards were both listed as 1/4", but one board measures at just over 3/16 and the other at just over 1/4. When I am using slot and tongue joinery and am cutting both the difference in thickness really come into play. Having to go back and enlarge a slot or shave down a tongue really eats into the time it takes to complete a project.

 So, my question is: what are acceptable tolerances for wood thickness? Yes, I know that whatever MY needs are, but what should I expect from a wood supplier? Plus or minus 1/16, 1/32, 1/8? What is reasonable?

 

 

 

I couldn't think of any tags to use on this. Suggestions?

Don't know of industry standard for thinner lumber. Heck, 1/4" plywood often isn't.

It's an extra step but, I would plane it. Then, talk to your supplier(s).

As to tags, your title about covers it.

 

 

Some of this may stem from the location of manufacturing.

 

I have noticed a wide variation in the sizes of dowel diameters. If the dowel is made in the USA, it is usually very close to the fractional specified diameter. However, if the location of manufacturing is Asia the diameter is often quite different than the fractional specified diameter.

6 hours ago, lew said:

I have noticed a wide variation in the sizes of dowel diameters

I think the same is true anymore with dimensional flat stock too especially at the BORGS. One time they get it from this supplier, the next time from another. or different mills to the same supplier..some still abide by English scale, others utilize metric dimensions.

 

I've experienced it with 3/4" (4/4) as well as 5/4...out of the the same bin...figured different suppliers or mills...If thickness is critical, it forces you to buy your own planer....of course with thinner stock, you really need to use a sled and fasten stock to sled with double sided tape IMO.

Edited January 20, 20188 yr by Grandpadave52

33 minutes ago, Grandpadave52 said:

It thickness is critical, it forces you to buy your own planer.

...or a drum sander

5 minutes ago, lew said:

...or a drum sander

Someday hopefully and better yet for the thin stuff...at least I've got the justification now..."Lew said I should get one of these!"

Edited January 20, 20188 yr by Grandpadave52