Hey everyone! I'm looking to build some custom built-in cabinets for my entryway, similar to the ones shown in this image. I'm feeling pretty confident about the project, but I'm uncertain about the best type of wood to use for the top part of the cabinets. I'm considering using 15mm plywood, but at my local stores, I can only find poplar, oak, beech, birch, and pine – most of them pre-coated. I'm aiming for a finish that hides the wood grain completely. I've tried using beech with a spray gun before, but the results weren't great; while the paint looks good from afar, the grain is still visible up close. I'm wondering if it was a sanding issue, a problem with the wood itself, or if it's just difficult to achieve that smooth, industrial look. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
If you want the smoothest finish, poplar and MDF are solid picks for painted furniture. You can use almost anything, but there's no need to waste nicer wood on a project like this. Just make sure the surface is flat and smooth for painting!
For birch plywood, three coats of primer work wonders! Sand with 220 grit between each coat and finish with 320 after the last one. This method fills the grain and gives you a really smooth finish. Just be sure to clean up all the dust afterward, I use a tack cloth. Given your options, go with either poplar or birch and steer clear of any woods with open grain. Good luck with your build!
For painting, I highly recommend poplar. If you can, use 3/4 inch thickness since it's sturdier, but 5/8 works well for cabinet doors. Poplar paints really nicely, and I usually start with a wood primer to get the best results. You'll love how it finishes!
You’ll be fine with poplar; it holds up well when painted. Just make sure to treat it properly!
That’s helpful! I’ll definitely look for both thicknesses. But is poplar too soft? Will that matter once it’s painted?