I'm about to move into a new house, and my wife wants me to build some built-in bookcases that stretch from floor to ceiling, complemented by lower cabinets. While I'll be painting the outer surfaces, I'm hoping to stain the insides of the shelves to give them a bit of warmth and contrast. What type or grade of plywood would be ideal for this project? Should I invest in high-end cabinet-grade options, or will I be fine with something like sanded plywood from a big box store? I have access to Menard's, Lowe's, and The Home Depot, and I'm located in southeastern Michigan, though there aren't many local dealers available to the public.
3 Answers
It all boils down to the finish you're looking for and whether you're edge-banding. Honestly, a lot of the plywood from Home Depot is subpar, filled with voids. If you're only painting the edges, it might not turn out well. But if you do your due diligence and find decent sheets, you could make it work. Still, I'd suggest finding a local hardwood dealer if you can; the higher quality is often just a bit more and can save you a headache in the long run. Their selection is usually way better than the big stores.
It really depends on the look you're aiming for. I personally love birch and maple, especially with just a clear coat to keep that light wood vibe. If you prefer something with more character, red oak is great for staining and really highlights the grain. You probably don't need super high-end plywood since you’re painting the outsides and can cover up more imperfections when using it as shelves. But I'd steer clear of sanded plywood; I used it in our nursery and it turned yellow and got splotchy over time. Totally wish I'd spent a little extra for quality.
For staining, red oak plywood is your best bet, as birch and maple don't take stains well. The price difference—only about $10-15 more than sanded plywood—makes it a worthwhile investment. You want your shelving to look good, right?
I hear you! My Home Depot has pretty terrible plywood, too. I ended up splurging on some quality wood from a hardwood dealer for shop furniture, and it was totally worth it. Home Depot's is often more expensive and just looks awful.