In my experience, a wash coat is a must with poplar. And even a 1lb cut
of orange shellac will blotch a little. While I have no suggestion as to
color, I've had good experience with oil stains like Varathane. I leave
alot of stain on, so that it's almost like staining and glazing at the
same time. The grain - what there is of it - shows up well, without
calling attention to itself. Once I have the color, I usually finish
with MinWax Antique Oil. I'm building book shelves on a cabinet base
right now from poplar, and using Varathane American Walnut.

Tom Ellis Dayton OH


> -----Original Message----- From: oldtools-bounces@r...> [mailto:oldtools-
> bounces@r...] On Behalf Of> Tony Zaffuto Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009
> 9:05 PM To: oldtools@r... Subject: [OldTools] poplar
>> I'm constructing a "cigar bar" for my daughter's upcoming>
>> wedding. Bottom
> is traditional frame & panel, already painted a "colonial> blue". The
> top will be constructed of poplar, mainly because I'm not sure if> the
> bar will have any use after the reception, so I don't want to>
> sacrifice the cherry or walnut I have squirrel away.
>> Anyhow, I looking to this list for some finishing suggestions> to
>> make the
> poplar look "cherry" like! I've been thinking of an aniline> dye and
> some sort of film top coat. Any suggestions or warnings? I also>
> apologize for this post for being a bit "off topic".
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