Have some cabinets to build

[Warped & Twisted]

The face frame and raised panel door are to be made of either African mahogany or Sapele.
What's the difference between the two. Is one or the other easier to work with? More stable ect? I'll be doing my own stock prep.

 

[Gene Howe]

Richard, I always thought Sapele and African Mahogany was the same wood ??????

At any rate, Sapele is tight grained and easy to work.

 

 

[lew]

Here's the comparisons-

http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/sapele/

http://www.wood-database.com/?s=african+mahogany

I've made some rolling pins from Sapele. The grain can have an iridescent look to it. The wood can get dinged pretty easily- not as crush resistant as other hardwoods.

 

[Gene Howe]

Thanks, Lew.

It's a wasted day when one doesn't learn something new.

 

 

[Richard Inlow]

I just built a bath vanity using Sapele and found it very easy to work with. I'm planning on building kitchen cabinets using the same material as well. My only concern is that the grain pattern can be overwhelming in large scale projects. Here's a pic of the bath vanity.

 

 

[Harry Brink]

Very nice, Richard. I like the grain pattern and color.

[Warped & Twisted]

Thanks for the replies guys. Richard, that a very nice looking cabinet. I assume that flatsawn. Am I correct?

[Ron England]

nice cabinet,an what everyone needs on their vanity a sander lol

[John Morris]

Wow!!!! Beautiful Richard!!!! That is some really nice work not too mention that wonderful grained sapele. Nice work man, now what are your plans for a counter top?

 

 

[Richard Inlow]

 

 

[Ron Dudelston]

Sapele is a lot oilier and whenever I use it I question if Titebond is the right glue.