Microsoft Word - Text - Advanced Woodworking

WOODWORKING

Chapter 5

List of Materials

Introduction:
The importance of preparing properly for a woodworking project cannot be understated, and it goes
much further than simply drawing a set of plans. Not only should you know how you will build your
project. You must also know the specific elements required to complete it and the expense. In other words,
you should calculate the cost before you begin. Foolish is the person who builds only to find out that the
cost is too high to complete. Knowing ahead of time the type of materials, the required hardware, the
finishing supplies, how much lumber you will need, and the cost of each will protect you from wasting
material, making design mistakes, and falling short on finances. All of this information is included in your
list of materials. The list of materials is a shopping list. Every item you will need to complete your project
should be included on this list, from the size of screw fasteners to the color of stain. Below are the
required elements of an effective list of materials.

Items:

1. Type and size of lumber: Decide what type of lumber you will use to build your project. This is
   covered more fully in Unit Two: Understanding Wood, but for now consider the purpose of your
   project (what it will be used for), the desired beauty, and the necessary strength. Then, choose the
   wood that will best suite your needs. Remember, if you are going to paint your project, consider
   using press board or a medium density fiberboard (MDF). Finally, list the size and type of each
   piece of lumber as it is sold in the store. Simply refer to your cutting schedule and find the pieces of
   common size. Next, ask yourself how many pieces you can get out of a standard eight foot long
   piece of lumber. For instance, if you will cut four pieces of 3 1/2” lumber 20” long, you will only
   need to purchase one eight foot piece from the store. Note: Even if the woodshop has your lumber
   in storage, you must include it in the list of materials as needing to be purchased.


2. Hardware: Hardware is the term used to describe metal ware (handles, shelf pegs, shelf supports,
   etc.) or mechanical equipment (hinges, drawer slides). List the type, item number, and color of
   each.


3. Fasteners: Fasteners are used for joinery. On your working drawings you should have already
   listed the type of joinery you will use for every joint of your project. List the type and size of the
   fasteners you will use.


4. Finish: Choose the type of finish you will use (oil, wax, paint, stain) and the color


5. Other: Include such items as glass, mirrors, pre-fabricated feet, and whatever else your project
   requires to be completed.

Cost Calculation:

1. Quantity: Decided exactly how many of each store bought item you will need to purchase.


2. Cost per item: Go to the store and get the prices for each item.


3. Total: Multiply the needed quantity by the individual price to determine the amount the item(s) will
   cost.


4. Sub Total: Add up the cost of materials and include it in the space provided.


5. Tax: Multiply the sub total by the local sales tax (if %15, multiply by .15).


6. Total: Add the sub total and the tax together to determine the total cost.

A sample of a list of materials is provided on the following page. You may not begin building your
project until your material list is completed and approved by the teacher.

Unit I: Project Preparation