Poplar wood has a light, pale colour, often described as cream to light yellowish-brown. Some pieces may have greenish or even grayish tones, especially in the sapwood, which contrasts with the darker heartwood.
As it ages, the colour may deepen slightly.
2. Grain:
The grain of poplar is typically straight and uniform, which makes it relatively easy to work with.
Some poplar can have a fine to medium texture, and while it’s generally smooth, it might show some subtle patterns or streaks.
3. Durability:
Poplar is a soft hardwood, meaning it’s not as dense or durable as other hardwoods like oak or maple.
It is not naturally resistant to decay or insects, so it’s best used indoors or treated for outdoor applications.
4. Workability:
Poplar is considered easy to work with in terms of cutting, shaping, and sanding.
It holds nails, screws, and glue well, and it also takes paint and stain well, though it might not hold stain as evenly as some other woods, so pre-conditioning is sometimes recommended.