Basswood

Poplar typically has a straight, uniform grain, with a medium texture. Heartwood is light cream to yellowish brown, with occasional streaks of gray or green. Sapwood is pale yellow to white, not always clearly demarcated from the heartwood. Moderate to non-rot resistance, can be subject to insect attack. Very easy to work in almost all regards, one of Poplar’s only downsides is its softness.

Roughly 25% softer than Hard Maple. Grey-brown to reddish hardwood. Fine, straight grain that is much easier to machine than hard maple. Takes stain easily.

Grain is usually straight, but can be irregular. Has a medium texture. Heartwood can range from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Color can sometimes have a grey, purple, or reddish cast. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Typically easy to work provided the grain is straight and regular.