Want to build with poplar? Here are the benefits, some things to keep in mind and some fantastic poplar woodworking project ideas and tutorials!
Once you get into woodworking, one of the fun things to do is experiment with different types of wood.
Many people start their woodworking hobby by making pine woodworking projects, and once they get a few of those under their belts, start looking for a slightly nicer wood.
The most common next-step-up lumber that you will fine at a hardware store like Lowes or Home Depot is usually poplar.
I wanted to share the benefits of poplar wood, tips for working with poplar, and share a lot of ideas for poplar woodworking project tutorials.
The Beauty and Benefits of Poplar Wood
Poplar is a popular hard wood for beginner to intermediate woodworkers to work with. It has a light color with unique graining and is technically a hardwood - making it more durable compared to soft woods like pine.
Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks to choosing poplar for your woodworking project:
Some of the benefits of poplar wood include:
- Poplar has a straight grain, making it smooth and easy to work with.
- Even though it is a hardwood, poplar is on the softer side. This makes it easy to cut, sand, and work with in general!
- Poplar is relatively lightweight.
- Because it is a hardwood, it is less likely to warp, twist, or bend, especially compared to softer woods like white wood or pine.
- Poplar is readily available, easy to find and buy, and cheaper than other hardwoods.
- Finally, poplar trees are relatively fast growing and replenish themselves quickly, making it a sustainable lumber choice.
Some of the disadvantages of poplar wood:
- Poplar can have a variety of coloration including green or even purple grain. This can be beautiful if you incorporate that into the aesthetic - but if you need a few boards to match, it can be hard to find pieces that blend well aesthetically.
- For a hardwood, poplar is pretty soft. It is not as durable as other hardwoods and is more likely to scratch or dent than walnut or oak, for example.
- Poplar can tend to absorb stain in a splotchy way - with little dashes of texture all over it.
Is poplar good for making furniture?
Poplar is a beautiful and cost-effective lumber choice when making furniture. It has a great balance of cost and quality, making it popular especially with beginner to intermediate woodworkers.
Poplar might not be the best choice for something that will need extreme strength or will get a ton of wear and tear. For instance, we used poplar for our angled dining table and while it is beautiful and holds up well, it doesn't do well with our kids stabbing their forks into the top.
However, it is great for many woodworking builds.
Is poplar wood very expensive?
Poplar is more expensive than pine or construction lumber, but is usually the cheapest option for a hard wood board. This makes it a great introduction to working with hardwoods for many new builders!
Tips for Working with Poplar
- Always have proper ventilation and protective gear due to the potential for sawdust irritation.
- Poplar is soft and cuts easily, making it easier to get a smooth finish when sanding.
- This soft wood can also split easily, so pre-drill holes to prevent splitting.
- Use sharp blades for clean cuts and to reduce tear-out.
- Stick to a clear coat finish to enhance the wood's natural beauty while providing protection.
Poplar Woodworking Project Ideas
Here are a ton of woodworking projects made using poplar!
Poplar woodworking projects
Poplar is one of the best woods to work with. It's readily accessible at hardware stores and is smooth and beautiful to take your projects to the next level!
This coffee table is open and modern and has tons of room for display... or not!
This gorgeous dining table is made entirely from poplar and it is the statement piece in the room.
Gather a lot of poplar and make this modern take on the classic design of a four poster canopy bed.
This simple watch and accessories holder makes a great gift and looks really good out on display while being functional!
This simple planter centerpiece is great for swapping out decor for the seasons!
Build your kid the crib of their dreams with this traditional style crib, make from poplar and plywood.
If you don't have room for a big desk, a simple writing desk is a great option. Making it out of poplar makes it look beautiful!
Strips of poplar will look great as you create a Christmas card holder in the shape of a tree!
Get your kids to help you in the kitchen with this DIY learning tower made from poplar!
This fun and simple angled plant stand is a great statement piece on any table!
Pair this bench with a dining table or put it in your entryway!
Help your kids get to what they need to reach with a modern take on a step stool!
Grab some poplar and a sewing machine and make a play tent your kids will love!
Try your hand at building a crib for your kids or grandkids, using poplar, plywood and 2x4s.
Upgrade your kid to a big kid bed with a house style bed with shelves and hidden storage.
Add some decorative hooks to a plywood board and make a great storage area for necklaces!
What's your favorite poplar woodworking project?
Before you go...
Once you decide what to make with poplar, you need to pick a wood finish! Check out all of our favorite wood stains to use on pine!
Looking for something?
We've been doing this since 2012 so we have a LOT of blog posts!
Search stuff like: Ceiling Projects | DIY Plant Stands | Thrift Flips
Hello, I'm Morgan, half of the creative force behind CharlestonCrafted.com! With a passion for DIY that dates back to 2012, I've transformed three homes and now I'm dedicated to helping others craft their dream spaces. Let's turn your house into a home together!
