> 1) I cannot find a 2x4 long enough and straight enough for my strong back.
> I am thinking about building one up from finished particle board. I do not
> have the ability to rip wood either per Nick's suggestion. But I can find
> strips of particle board nearly the correct dimensions that I can use. Has
> anyone else tried this? Pros and cons? The dimensions will not build up to
> 2x4 exactly. I know there is nothing magical about those numbers. I will
> just have to adjust the hole dimensions I cut in the forms right?

I picked up 1/2 inch oriented strand board from some new housing scrap piles I cut them into 4" widths and laminated them together with nails and glue. Longest was 8 ft shortest 4 ft. glued them against a straight edge and came out with a very straight and very stable strong back at no cost. Earl