Timber species for faceframes

[Al dedenus]

I'm doing a kitchen with faceframes that is to be finished in a cream colour satin lacquer.
I'd like to use a hardwood so it will stand up to knocks and general wear and tear,however timbers like Oak and Ash arn't suitable as they are to open grained so when I lacquer you would see the grain .Thought about using Beech or Maple?
Obviously want something that is both durable and stable
Would appreciate any feed back and suggestions for a suitable timber to use

[Simon Randall]

I would look at Tulipwood (hardwood )

Botanical Name
Liriodendron Tulipifera

Origin
USA (also known as Canary Whitewood and Yellow Poplar)

Brief Description
Colour:Pale yellowish-brown to pale olive-brown, streaked with olive green
Grain: Straight
Texture: Regular, fine

Uses
Pattern making, carving, cabinet making interior fittings and joinery

Working Properties
Easy to work, with both hand tools and machines

Durability
Non-durable

Density
450 kg/m³

but this info is for the UK so you are best off calling you supplier and ask for a sample of it and then do some test finishing to see.

[Simon Randall]

http://www.woodworkerssource.com/Poplar.html

[Rick Palechuk]

Poplar is pretty soft, we use it for paint grade stuff. Birch or maple would be more ding resistant.

[Al dedenus]

Thanks for the input guys Maple it is

[Will Williamson]

I see a lot of companies using Soft Maple for paint grade they are 2 different grades whnad (worm holes not a defect)and whad (worm holes a defect)