Replies

1. 
   ring | Mar 31, 2007 05:06pm | #1

   Soft maple often has gray streaks that might make it unsuitable for certain pieces. Otherwise, it's a nice wood to work with. Of course hard maple is also nice. Personally, I dislike staining either one.
   Maple looks best (IMHO) either of 2 ways: a perfectly clear water-borne acrylic finish, or that golden color you get with shellac and varnish.

   David Ring

   http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e

2. 
   Pondfish | Mar 31, 2007 07:20pm | #2

   Soft maple often has more figure in it than hard (sugar) maple.  In my experience, either is fine for furniture as "soft" maple is still quite hard.  Blotching is a problem if you want to stain, and you will need to use a preconditioner.  But a shellac finish looks great; a quick oil rub before finishing can help accent the grain without blotching.

   Recommending the use of "Hide Signatures" option under "My Preferences" since 2005
3. 
   GRW | Apr 01, 2007 04:32am | #3

   I use hard/sugar maple in my furniture. I would also suggest a preconditioner prior to staining, though I prefer the natural look.