What is the best type of wood to use for a sign?
If the sign will be used outdoors you should choose a wood that holds up well outdoors. I usually use Northern White Cedar because it’s harvested locally here in Northern Michigan. But Western Red Cedar, Cypress, White Oak, Walnut, and Black Cherry also are good choices for use outdoors. There are probably other species that would work just as well. Try to avoid knots because they can chip away and can throw off the accuracy of your cut when you bump into them with the router bit. Indoor signs can be made of just about any type of wood. I sometimes use Basswood for indoor signs that will be painted.
