Replies

1. 
   hammer1 | Mar 08, 2010 10:50am | #1

   It's entirely up to you which species you choose. I don't know what you have for local suppliers. I often shop for lumber the same way I shop for produce, if the species isn't specified. Choices may be limited in some species and plentiful in others. I make a decision based on cost, quality and what is on the shelves.

   Poplar and soft maple would not be my choices for a stained finish but they are fine for paint. Many species are easy to work, I wouldn't let that be a deciding factor. With natural or stained finishes, we often try to use boards that are similar in appearence or are sequential cuts from the same log. This is where shopping  becomes important. I might go in looking for walnut but only find a few twisted, narrow pieces. In the next bin, there may be a fresh stack of cherry with plenty of great looking boards. Even if the cherry is more expensive, I'll save time and have a better looking project, maybe even be inspired by their beauty. I like to make sure I have enough for the project plus extra for waste, set ups, practicing and (hopefully not) replacing. Cutting it too close to save a little money can come back and bite you.