wrote:
Ok, so I am an inexperienced DIYer but at least im enthusiastic about
the possibilities.

I want to build a computer desk and some alcove shelving. I need
several sheets of plywood but i really dont have a bloody clue what im
talking about. I really think if the whole industry was more
accessible to dumbasses like me im sure it would be bigger. Second
problem, and a big one - the ply wont fit in my car, obviously, so a
delivery needs to be arranged but will anyone deliver a small quantity
of timber to me economically ?... i doubt it.

I need some 18mm ply thats furniture grade for the desk and
shelves( 3-4 sheets) and maybe some 1 inch by 2 inch battons for the
shelving design i found online. It would be great if it was possible
to buy this stuff online but i can only find www.buildercenter.co.uk
and have heard they are expensive.

I have a list of timber merchants near me from yell.com

Is it a good idea to ring a few of these and bumble my way through a
quote request?.. what kind of ply is best for me and what's a good
price?

Thanks for any help.

Just say you want good quality 18mm birch ply, cut and delivered, and
get a quote.

Ply seems to come in about three gared.

Crap stuff which is useful for structures, but dosn;t look that good and
mustn't get wet.

WBP (?) which ain't that great either, but can get a bit wet.

And quality birch ply that smells lovely when you cut it (except on a
laser) and has a fine finish.

I would expect to see much change out of 50 notes for an 8x4 sheet of
birch, cut and delivered. Bit its ages since I bought some, so I could
be well wrong..