Wood costs

Submitted by Medickep on Sun, 06/02/2013 - 16:55

I was wondering what people thought was the best wood for the dollar for furniture you're going to paint. I was thinking hemlock or poplar, but I thought I heard poplar can be soft. Or maybe even pine??

I want to build some nightstands and do not want to overpay for wood if I don't have to!!

VLT

Sat, 06/15/2013 - 20:53

Different areas of the country have different species available and varying prices. Ana mentions the 79 cent 1x2 furring strips, but at our big orange they are $1.69! Furring strips and lots of the "boards" are called "SPF" for spruce-pine-fir; the wood could be any of the three and any of several species within those categories. It is hard to tell, for me anyway. If hemlock is available in the sizes you need and seems reasonable, go for it. Poplar? Great. If it is too soft the finished peice may get some extra marks on it, but isn't that really called "distressing" these days? Compare prices and go for it!

Medickep

Sun, 06/16/2013 - 08:42

I appreciate the help! I've noticed hemlock seems to be a fair price for the quality in my area. It's cheaper than Doug fir and NSF in my area!

Thanks again!