There are three main methods for converting logs into boards: through and through sawing, tangential sawing, and quarter sawing. Through and through sawing cuts logs parallel to the grain, producing wide boards quickly but with potential for cupping. Tangential sawing cuts logs at an angle to the grain, producing stable boards with a flame figure but is more expensive. Quarter sawing cuts logs at a 45 degree angle to the growth rings, producing narrow boards that are very stable with an attractive grain but is the most expensive method.