wrapping interior columns

I've used FJP plenty of times. Inexpensive and stable. Obviously only works for paint grade.

A job I did 2 months ago were I wrapped columns in 1/2" MDF. All edges ripped on the 45 then glued and nailed with 1" brads.

Poplar for paint grade. For generic stain grade, alder, though it's nicer to pick a wood the character of which you can highlight.

Wow, thanks for all the quick responses. This will need to be stain grade. Looks like poplar or alder would be good, although I might look at that MDF or hardwood ply idea. Thanks for the photos, looks great. Don't think there will be room for storage at the base because the columns are at the entrance to a room. Thanks again. Not doing the work for a week or two, so will take some pics and post them.:thumbup:

I have used different types of wood, but for something different on a basement remodel I did I took a sonotube and cut it in half. I put it around the column and used a stud to screw the tube back together. I then wrapped the tube in self furring metal lath and covered with dryvit. You could use plaster but this was a sidejob (union carpenter), and I got the dryvit off of a job, as the plasterers had extra and were throwing it away. It turned out awesome and the HO loved it. I wish I had pics

basswood said:

I've also used poplar.

Adding a subtle taper to the columns can be a nice touch as well.

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Personally I can't stand the way the plinths protrude into the walkway at just about the perfect height to catch a hip or hand,a child's head or eye. As my mother used to say " It's all fun and games till someone loses an eye".