Within reason the grain pattern that "I like" determines the
width of each board...

BUT to be honest I "cheat" a little (alot) to get the look I want...
a 25 x 42 top may end up a little larger or smaller...

In General I find myself using boards between 4 and 5 inches
in width...( Joiner is only a 6 in one anyway... )

Bob Griffiths