> I am getting ready to build a Great Auk from Nicks plans. I have a source
> for Ash to make the strips out of. Has anyone worked with Ash before? is
> it heavy?( compared to cedar) I also have a source for poplar. Would that
> work better?

> Thanks, Steve

Both ash and poplar should be good woods. Poplar is a name applied to a variety of woods, but generally they are all nice light-colored woods. A bit of darker wood for accent - a few strips of redwood for instance -- can be very effective if you are thinking of making some decorative patterns.

on weight: Cedar should be lighter than poplar and that should be lighter than ash.

This strips of ash are very strong and have been used as ribs for canoes for a long time. Ash is a good wood for steam bending, too, so if you want to get some strip into an 'impossible" curve, consider using some steam to help it bend.

These woods have good strength, so if you want to cut some weight, use thinner strips. 3/16 inch thick strips will cut 25% off the weight compared to 1/4 inch strips of a given material. You could probably go as low as 1/8 inch.

Cedar is much softer and easier to shape to fit. With these harder woods you'll need to be sure your tools are sharp, and take your time.

If you have any question about how much resin is going to be absorbed by the wood, seal it with light coat of epoxy before you put the glass on.

Hope this helps

Paul G. Jacobson