The best timber for cupboard? I want to build some new cupboard doors, and want a nice...
I want to build some new cupboard doors, and want a nice stained, wood effect on the doors - what's the best timber to use for this brief - should I use something like a wood veneer (like Oak or Birchwood) or should I use solid wood? Will a veneer make a contribution a high part stained finish?
Answers: either can look obedient.
veneer will give a suitable finish if you know how to do it
veneer downsides
tallpaul makes the point going on for machining as the veneer is only give or take a few 0.7mm thick you cannot cut any pattern in the front, you could stick on mouldings though.
also the edges enjoy to be finished (lipped) with section of solid wood or the base/core material is perceptible
as its thin if the veneer is dog-eared the core is visible, fairly difficult to repair.
upside
veneer ply is pretty cheap compared to solid and easy to bring
lots of furniture is made with veneer especially for wide section where solid is expensive and/or unstable due to expansion/contraction, see classic maker from 16th century on, i dont think they look resembling ikea
solid is just that, so its robust but involve planks glued side to side to capture a door size.
more effort to construct and get a well-mannered finish unless you are well set up for it, machinery etc if you want rustic enjoy a go especially if they are to be hung on usual 'door' hinges and sit on the front of the cabinet
i presume we are conversation about kitchen door type doors
my suggestion - look for replacement doors surrounded by either textile unless you are set up for woodworking or want to diy.
avoid the mdf and chipboard cores with printed motion picture veneers they do look crap imo and the films other look messy/unfinished on the edges/overaps
there are some really nice ones out here but they do cost more of course
some of the woods suggested are great if you hold VERY deep pockets
our kitchen is 'african pine' sounds cheap but it looks really virtuous with a black granite worktop. veneer is a cheaper alternative.