I need to buy a few boards of Ipe wood to make a couple of kids projects. The project strongly recommends Ipe, but I could not find it at Lowes.
Any suggestion of where to find it?

Bet capn-mac will know.

Or, you can check Home Improvement Board:
http://texags.com/main/forum.topic.asp?forum_id=61

You are probably not going to find it locally and definitely not at a Lowes/HD.

I would try http://www.clarkshardwood.com in Houston. I use them to get most of my hardwood these days. Gas is usually cheaper than ordering mail order and paying shipping. And more importantly, you are able to choose the boards you want.

And for reference - I have also seen ipe referred to as Ironwood or Brazilian Walnut.



[This message has been edited by aggiepublius (edited 1/15/2013 11:57a).]

Great! thanks

my ironwood is supposedly from the sonoran desert... but its HARD..

best place is houston hardwoods... I think clarks was a wee bit more pricey... IMO...

you can always go to woodcraft, but they're more expensive..

I would call around..

there is also an Austin Hardwoods..

d

Houston Hardwoods FTW!

Well, gee <scuffs toe> , thanks, momlaw <g>

Woodson Lumber would be my first place to look.

If decking dimensions--5/4 x 5½"--would suit, both Lowe's & HD can order in some.

Hope Lumber on Longmire probably ought to have some decking-sized Ipé.

Brazos Flooring has outlets in several Texas cities.

To OP, get brand new blades & bits for working with Ipé, it's hard stuff. I'd be very inclined to get some veneer blades for making more kid-friendly cuts. Oh, get lots of extra sandpaper, too. (Although, I prefer a plane or scraper as it makes a better finish.)

That's my 2¢; you'll need another $4 for a happy meal.

wait.. woodson? isn't it an exotic? the most exotic thing at woodsons is usually ......well.. me...

yep, I was spot on re capn

quality response

sorry you are no longer here

edit for spelling



[This message has been edited by momlaw (edited 1/15/2013 6:59p).]

I made extensive use of Ipe at my residence for outdoor decking, furniture and walkways. Please note that some people can be very allergic to the dust, whether it is breathed or gets on their skin. I suggest that if you are cutting it you use a mask and keep your skin covered.

Yes, it is very hard wood and will wear blades quickly. Mine has held up well to the weather so far.

I have also been corrected by Antipodeans that Ipe is actually a different wood than ironwood, whose name is often used here to describe Ipe. FWIW.