: Poplar is an inexpensive, easy-to-work-with "semi-hardwood" great for secondary parts or painted finishes.
: Judge pieces quickly for color, grain, and lack of warp. buy hardwood
: Hardwood is often sold using the "x/4" system for thickness (e.g., 4/4 is one inch thick) and graded as "Select" or "Common" based on quality. : Poplar is an inexpensive
: Buying rough, un-milled lumber is typically cheaper, though it requires your own milling equipment. un-milled lumber is typically cheaper
: Look beyond retail stores; farmers and local small mills often sell hardwood on Facebook Marketplace at better prices. Buying Hardwood Flooring
: Experts suggest a "beauty pageant" approach:
For woodworkers, buying hardwood is often more complex than picking up construction lumber at a big-box store.