I've been struggling with planing hard maple and I'm not sure why it's such a pain. Just recently, I found that planing gabon ebony was significantly easier than working with hard maple. I'm curious if it's really as tough as I think it is or if others have had different experiences?
4 Answers
Maple can definitely be tricky sometimes. Even seemingly plain pieces hide grain variations that make smoothing them a hassle. I've got some super plain hard maple that feels nearly like pushing through a block of plastic. It's fascinating how the lack of pores can make it tough to work with!
I used to hate hard maple too until I tackled hickory. Now I actually enjoy working with hard maple! I find taking thinner shavings helps a lot. Ironically, I struggle more with red oak because of its grain differences. Everyone has their preferences!
Come try our native woods in Australia! Some are a dream to work with, like red cedar, while others, like certain eucalypts, can be as tough as hard maple. But the beauty of some of the Australian woods is just unmatched!
I've heard blue gum can be a nightmare too! Would love to try some of your local hardwoods.
Honestly, it's not the worst wood out there. I once tried working with bocote, and the interlocked grain made it nearly impossible to plane. Hard maple might be tough, but I've had way worse experiences! Plus, when you get it right, maple can look stunning in your projects!
True, I think grain variation really does play a bigger role than hardness alone.