I recently saw an amazing hickory game table, which got me thinking. Hickory isn't usually at the top of my list when it comes to wood choices. I'm really curious to find out about other underrated hardwoods that might not only be unique but also more affordable compared to the usual options like walnut, cherry, and oak. Any suggestions?
3 Answers
Hickory can be a real challenge to work with; it's heavy and warps easily when milled. If you're in the market for affordable furniture wood, you can't go wrong with ash. Alder is nice as well, but it's softer, so I'd save that for shelves instead of tabletops. Red oak often gets a bad rap, but when finished properly, it can look stunning—just skip the yellow poly finish!
Poplar is definitely a great pick! It paints really well, is stable, and it's pretty easy on your tools. Yes, some folks criticize it for its color variations, but I actually think those variations make it beautiful. Plus, if you're planning to use dark stains, it takes them like a dream!
Totally agree! I've worked a lot with poplar, and it lathes up nicely too. Maybe it was just the green color that turned some people off, but I really love working with it.
It's also fantastic with aniline dyes if you're looking for really vibrant colors—think greens, reds, and blues!
If you're considering alternatives to walnut, Sapele can be a cheaper and attractive option. It's definitely worth checking out!
Hickory, and pecan too, are brutal on tools. I learned that the hard way. You really need super sharp edges if you're using hand tools, otherwise, you'll get worn down quick!