MEASURE, PROCURE AND CUT

Determine if the board is a two-by-four, two-by-six, etc., keeping in mind that a two-by-four measures 11/2-by-31/2 inches, a two-by-six measures 11/2-by-51/2 inches, and so forth. Measure the length, and pick up the lumber at a home improvement center, making sure each is as straight and true as possible. I like common redwood, southern yellow pine or Douglas fir construction lumber. Some stores will cut boards to length, or you can trim them square with a Skill power saw or sharp handsaw.