Which wood for 3D models?

[jeffmorris]

I would like to make 3D models of subway cars. Which wood is best for 3D models where the real things are not made of wood? Is it possible to use plastic sheets? If so, which kind of plastic that can be machined using woodworking tools?

[louieatienza]

Basswood might be a good choice. Mills and sands relatively easily.

[Phife]

Several woods are good for 3d work, like Walnut, maple, birch, poplar and alder. Ive tried all of them with good success. Woods like cherry seem to leave a lot of fibres that need to be sanded off.

If you dont want to use wood I would recommend either HDU in at least 20lb density. 30lb is better and nearly rock solid but can be easily machined by woodworking tools.

As for plastics, most are no good, you can machine HDPE with woodworking tools but it wont be a nice finish.

[CarbonKevin]

Auto racing teams used to use mahogany for patterns and tooling years back... from the few projects I've done with mahogany, it does machine nicely!

[louieatienza]

Auto racing teams used to use mahogany for patterns and tooling years back... from the few projects I've done with mahogany, it does machine nicely!

Because of it's stability, the patternmakers of yore used mahogany as well! A branch of woodworking that probably doesn't get as much recognition for their technical abilities...

[slowlearner]

I am a pattermaker by trade and I prefer Jelutong for machining models. This wood is lightweight and will not splinter when cutting end grain. It is hard to find
but good mahogany is too. The only source I have for this lumber is Freeman Supply.