I'm diving into a woodworking project at home where I'm looking to build some shelves and maybe a small storage bench. Since I plan to do most of the work with hand tools and it's all for indoor use, I'm torn between using hardwoods like oak or maple and softwoods like pine or spruce. My key considerations are strength, ease of work, and cost. What are the pros and cons of going with softwoods instead of hardwoods for this type of project?
3 Answers
For me, it's all about cost and availability. I can grab decent pine boards easily, and they're much cheaper than hardwoods. If you’re just making practical furniture and not fine pieces, softwoods can do the job just fine! But keep in mind that the finish might not pop as much as it does on hardwoods.
I've used softwoods for utility pieces, and while they can be dented, I actually like the character they bring. Just be careful with staining—softwoods can absorb unevenly. A good pre-conditioner or a shellac coat can help a lot with that!
That's a solid tip! I also find that using a soft hardwood like poplar can be a great middle ground if you’re looking for something easier to work with and still cost-effective.
Generally, softwoods are cheaper and easier to find, but they can be tricky to work with when using hand tools. You might find that they dent and scratch easily during use. Some folks recommend using hardwoods because they tend to hold up better and look nicer in the end. If you're building shelves that will see a lot of use, those dents might start to show more.
Yeah, softwoods can definitely tear or blow out, especially when you’re drilling or fastening. Pre-drilling your holes can really help minimize that problem.
Totally agree, but be careful because box store hardwood prices can be outrageous! Sometimes you can find better quality by looking elsewhere.