I normally get most of my domestic wood (walnut, maple, mesquite, etc) either purchased or cut in flat stock. I then use a 4 1/4 hole saw to cut the blank. This gives me a plus 4 inch blank. I have tried several different ways but this serves me the best. I have two different sized 4 jaw chucks that I use and this size is great for me. Most of my calls are two sided with a second playing surface.