I am sitting on two pieces of special order wood. Cherry and mahogany 3x3x12. I am a bit gun shy to start first cuts for fear of improper grain cut for box (left to right). I will use walnut lids (up and down). Any tips to ensure I am doing this correctly out of the gate? Should I use the cotton ball method?
Yes!!! you need to know which way the grain is running in your wood before you start to cut your wood. You want the grain running towards the front end of your box, and the tail end of your paddle. That way your fighting against the grain as you close your box, it will play much easier.