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zwilliamford

What to do with ugly edges?

Veneer is a great choice for many custom furniture projects. It is strong, easy to work with, and the faces finish with very little sanding. However, the edges are a major drawback to veneer.


However, there is a solution! Edge banding is quick and relatively easy way to cover up those plywood edges. It takes a bit of practice and a few tools, but the time and effort is well worth it.


The edge banding I chose is maple to match the veneer plywood that I used. It comes in a 50 foot roll and is about 1/8 of an inch thick. The back side of the edge banding is coated with a hot melt glue.



To adhere the edge banding to the veneer, all that is needed is a common household iron set at the highest possible temperature setting. The edge banding is cut to size, and the iron is slowly and firmly run over it.


While the edge banding is still hot, I run a roller over it. This helps the glue get into the wood and secure the edge banding.



After the glue has set for an hour or so, I use specially designed edge banding trimmers to trim off the excess. The trimmers are designed to run flush with the edge of the wood.


The last step is to use a file to round over the edges of the edge banding. This also catches anything the trimmers missed.




The result: nicely finished veneer plywood for use in furniture and cabinet construction. The edge banding stains and varnished quite nicely, giving a high quality finish that would suite any room in the house.


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