For this project you simply need one piece of wood slightly wider than the miniature garden you want to create. We used a piece of walnut that was approx. 3/4" x 7" x 12" (20 x 175 x 300mm). If you are using rough lumber, you may need to surface a longer piece (remember to keep in mind the size limitations of your jointer and thickness planer - both have minimum length requirements). If you have previously surfaced lumber, you don't have to be concerned about surfacing. Next, using the table saw, cut off about 1" (25mm) for the rake. It is critical that the grain is running along the length of the 1" (25mm) strip, otherwise the tines of the rake will not be strong enough.