Replies

1. 
   CStanford_ | Feb 27, 2001 12:59am | #1

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   Poplar stains very well in my opinion. I've never stained Fir, but I have a feeling it could end up splotchy if a conditioner isn't used first.

1. 
   Gretchen_ | Feb 27, 2001 04:01am | #2

   *I was reluctant to respond but our son is putting up new molding. He treated it with a conditioner and then stain and it looks wonderful. I do a lot of refinishing and know the problem of blotching so was glad he had side-stepped it. Just another bit of info.

1. 
   Danford_C._Jennings | Mar 01, 2001 06:27am | #3

   *Linda,I agree with Charles, I call poplar the poor mans cherry because it is easily stained to look like cherry and has the similar "wild grain". Also, I retrimmed my home a couple of years ago with Hemlock (which is a fir) and did not need to use a sealer with no blotching. If you are referring to Douglas Fir than sealing would be advised. I have also stained vertical grain Doug Fir without sealing with excellent results, but would advise to test on scrap first. You don't mention whether this is an entrance or passage door. If it is the former I would go with vertical grain Doug Fir, if it is a passage door that is entirely up to you and your budget. I will caution you that, at least in my neck of the woods, good poplar is practically non existent and would not use it for any kind of door. FWIW.Dano

1. 
   john_gonzales | Apr 13, 2001 11:20am | #4

   *I live out west and I think that you will be fine with fir if you sand well. With fir you have to make sure you have a smooth surface, and that you practice the way you apply stain on a softer woods,your rag should be very wet to smooth the blothing,and timing removale and smoothing is more inportanton soft woods.