I'm working on a project to create a student desk, specifically the top portion. After acquiring a great corner desk frame, I quickly realized that the top made of cheap veneered MDF couldn't handle the weight of my textbooks, resulting in a noticeable dent after just one month. I'm now considering a more durable option, possibly an edge-glued panel made from either 1x6 or 1x4 boards. At the big box store, whitewood is about half the price of local poplar, which I know is a hardwood but could cost me double. The local lumber shop seems like a detour I don't want to take right now. I plan to use mainly hand tools, except for a corded drill to fasten everything. Given my circumstances and budget, do you think whitewood is sufficient, or should I invest in poplar?
3 Answers
Have you thought about plywood? It might be cheaper than both options. If you're concerned about how it feels to write on, you might also consider a glass top, but I know that can add to the cost too.
I'd opt for the poplar. It's a tougher wood compared to whitewood and can resist those pesky dents better. If you look up the Janka hardness ratings, you'll see that poplar is gonna be more resilient for a desk surface.
I get that poplar is harder, but I really hate paying more when I could possibly use lumber from my sibling's backyard if they’d let me.
Honestly, neither of those woods are ideal for a desktop. Whitewood, probably from white pine, is soft and poplar is surprisingly soft for a hardwood. If you go that route, you might want to think about some kind of protective finish or a blotter to avoid scratches and dents from regular use.
Noted! I usually build smaller things like keepsake boxes. However, I just received a hefty medical bill that emptied my lumber budget.
I did consider plywood, but since I only have hand tools, it’s a bit too challenging for now. As for glass, I'm not a fan of writing on it, plus it's an added expense I'm trying to avoid!