What domestic woods are like rubberwood?

[Charles Wilson]

So, my wife would like me to make some shelving type things for my son's room. In looking at some catalogs to get ideas, I noticed that a lot are made from rubberwood and/or MDF.

In terms of workability, hardness, strength, price per bf, etc., what domestic woods would be equivalent?

Any input?

Chuck

[jeff begin]

Rubberwood isn't generally considered an ideal wood. It's used extensively in Ikea-like furniture because it's cheap and easy to work, not because it makes great furniture.

What characteristic of rubberwood appeals to you most? The grain, maybe? We might be able to narrow it down from there. You might want to just go with pine or poplar if you're planning on painting the shevling.

[Charles Wilson]

Due to painting it and that its kid's furniture I was seriously considering poplar as I have had pretty good luck with it.

Thanks for the input,

Chuck