32 dollars for an 8' 2x6 seems a little high, though if that's a real 2x6 and not a 1.5/5.5 it may not be. I think you may be getting looped, though I confess I haven't checked ceder prices as of late. I'd call around.

This sounds about right for the western red cedar prices I have found - very expensive for anything over 4/4. If you want a comparison try this link:

http://www.westpennhardwoods.com/static/index.htm

I live in the Seattle area. Here's a price list for many sizes and grades around here so you can make a comparison:

Dunn

Thanks for the words and links folks - found out that i'm paying in the ballpark - maybe just a few pennies high, but as i said,it's the local lumberyard and their service is pretty good, it's 2 miles from home, and it's NOT a big box store. again thanks

I recently made a 5ft half log cedar mantle, after sanding from 100, 150, to 220 with gator sand paper Ithen applied 2 coats of min-a-wax natural stain which really brought out the rich red in the grain. I let dry for a day then foam brushed on 3 coats of fast drying water based polycrylic. Im interested in receiving comments or pointers on my process and the durability of the polycrylic.