Ash, beech and poplar: three boards that behave differently
Boards of the same thickness, dried in the same pile, do not behave alike. Three common local timbers show how much species matters.
Ash
Tough, springy and open-grained. It dries without much fuss and planes cleanly if the iron is sharp. It is the safe choice for handles and frames.
Beech
Hard, fine-grained and moves a lot with humidity. It can warp as it dries and check at the ends, so it wants closer stickers and good sealing. Once dry and settled, it is excellent for benches and tool bodies.
Poplar
Soft, plain and stable. It is the board for drawer sides and painted work, and it rarely gives trouble in the stack.
If a project asks for a board that stays put, start with poplar. If it asks for a board that lasts, start with ash, and give beech the time it needs.