TLDR: This is a good place if you already have the set up you need, know a lot about what you're doing, and don't need to ask questions.

2024 edit: my experience in 2024 was much better, I recieved help from Anne who was very knowledgeable and insightful to help guide entry level understanding. Very different experience from the multiple times I went in 2021 and 2022.

Previous review: I am a beginning woodworker who has been to NW Lumber many times over the last 1.5 years because I was given gift certificates there. Most of my experiences have been ambivalent at best. I have come to buy a basic set of chisels 3 separate times (Feb, April, and now December) only to be told every time that they "usually have it" and be offered no supportive alternatives- not ordering, not comparable products, not other places I can get it, nothing. I have multiple times asked questions just to be told "I don't know that much even though I've been here a while", and NOT directed to someone who could answer my questions or actually give me guidance. I have come to this place and walked out empty handed more times than I have successfully used my gift certificates.
I finally spoke my frustrations to a friend who is an expert carpenter, and he said he does not go there because of a experience when he called in an order, went to pick it up, saw it was not the type of lumber he asked, and the staff insisted that what he was looking at was that lumber- and it certainly was not.
Overall, my opinion that has formed is this place is only beneficial for people who know a lot already and don't need to trust the guidance or assistance of the employees here.

Google Review

Submitted by Jason Hodges on Wednesday, Mar 27, 2024

5 Star Review by Jason Hodges

Overall

My first experience with Northwest Lumber Co. was nothing but positive from the moment I entered all the way through my purchase and loading of my selections. I had a ton of questions and never got the impression I was being a bother. The selection of wood products is top notch and the service was 5 star. Looking forward to doing more business with them.

Google Review

Submitted by Lora Craft-Whiles on Saturday, Mar 16, 2024

5 Star Review by Lora Craft-Whiles

Overall

Love this shop! Great wood selections. Because I do a lot of old wood restoration, rejuvination, and decorative arts, I really appreciate the well stocked quality of the WoodKote Stain products they carry. They always have what I need and are very helpful.

Google Review

Submitted by Genji Sakurai on Wednesday, Oct 05, 2022

5 Star Review by Genji Sakurai

Overall

Love the place, the people, the selection of materials and the prices!

Google Review

Submitted by James Roscoe on Saturday, Oct 19, 2019

5 Star Review by James Roscoe

Overall

Very happy to find a full service custom wood shop here. Very friendly, helpful staff that will set you up the same day if they can. Excellent find.

Google Review

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