Which is better for laser engraving?

The Foggy Bottom basswood pack. Basswood engraves evenly and the 12 x 16 panels fit most hobby laser beds. Walnut engraves with lower contrast and costs more per square foot.

Which is better for a tabletop?

The LL Johnson walnut panel. It is 3/4 inch thick and comes up to 42 inches wide, so a top needs fewer seams. The basswood panels are small and soft for a working table.

Is the walnut panel worth the extra $16?

Yes if you need hardwood and a custom width. The $54.00 at Amazon buys made-to-order walnut with matched grain; the $38.00 basswood pack is three small softwood blanks.

Can I order just one walnut panel?

Only if it totals at least 20 board feet. A single 3/4 inch panel 24 inches wide and 48 inches long is about 6 board feet, so you would need several panels or a wider, longer one.

How long does each take to arrive?

The Foggy Bottom pack ships as a stocked item from Walmart. The LL Johnson panel is made to order with a 1-2 week lead time before shipping.

Which holds up longer outdoors?

Neither is sold as exterior grade. Walnut is harder and more rot-resistant than basswood, but any outdoor use needs a finish and protection from standing water.

Foggy Bottom Basswood Edge Glued Panel 3-Pack vs Walnut Edge Glued Panels

Buy the Foggy Bottom 3-pack if you want small, ready-to-use basswood blanks for signs, laser engraving or small casework at a low price. Buy the LL Johnson walnut panel if you need a dark hardwood panel in a custom width, and can meet the 20 board foot minimum and 1-2 week lead time. The Foggy Bottom pack is $38.00 at Walmart as of November 6, 2026; the walnut panel is $54.00 at Amazon as of November 6, 2026.

Today the Foggy Bottom Basswood Edge Glued Panel 3-Pack costs $16.00 less at its best price.

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