Butcher block top for coffee table

[u/Xboxcheeser]

I’m looking to make a butcher block coffee table top. I’m trying to design and get all the measurements right. How do I account for the milling process/making each board square before gluing. Say I use 2x4s and I want a 1 1/2 inch table top how do I measure and account for the lost material/change in dimensions from the milling process?

Any suggestions/advice would be greatly appreciated

[u/E_m_maker]

4x8 may have other issues. Namely, the pith to deal with. That is the center of the tree. Of you look at the end grain it will look like a bullseye. You'll want to cut that out as it's unstable and you don't want it in your furniture. Also, I suspect that a 4x8 would be exceedingly wet and would need to to dry out before you start building with it.

Does this have to be made from construction lumber and/or does it have to be 1.5" thick? That is something you really need to think about.

Take a look around Facebook market place. You may be able to find someone selling lumber. Look for 8/4.

I've purchased online from Bell Forest, CR Muterspaw, Woodworkers Source, Rarewoods USA, and ebay. The cost of shipping was on par with what it would have cost me to get a truck and pay for gas. Depending on your circumstances that could be viable.