One of my other interests is a hobby business of buying and selling collectibles. I go to a lot of garage sales and estate sales. Among other things, I always watch for fine tools and what my wife refers to as "playwood."
While poking around in a dusty shed at an estate sale Saturday, I noticed a stack of Florida storm shutters (plywood sheets) leaning against a wall in the back corner. I could see a darker board poking up behind them, so I dragged the plywood aside to get a closer look.
Turned out I was looking at a mahogany board — and it had some companions. I ended up buying my pick 'O the pile for $20.
After sorting through the junk I ended up with three nice clear mahogany boards, 16?x25?x2? inches, 12x46x1? inches and 9?x52?x1? inches. Also got a nice chunk of what I think is figured maple, 9x29?x2? inches, plus several smaller black walnut boards. The figure on the maple, if that's what it is, will look like wadded-up silk under finish.
It pays to look in the corners!
