You know how it goes you want to work with veneer, but then it breaks, isn't glued properly, or you sand right through it. These are just a few small issues you might encounter when working with veneer."

Tip 1: Cutting Veneer

There are many different ways to cut veneer. Each method has its own advantages. Below are some examples of various techniques:

• Laser cutting veneer: Suitable for intricate shapes, but it leaves a black edge on the veneer.

• Cutting with a knife: Creates clean cut lines, but it takes a lot of time to cut the veneer properly.

• Sawing: Sawing veneer is very fast, but there's a high risk of splintering. To prevent splintering, you can use tape. Taping the veneer helps reduce the chance of it splintering while sawing.

Tip 2: Veneer Gluing Techniques

Veneer can be glued using various techniques.

• Cylinder press: Very suitable for quickly gluing large sheets, but be careful not to use too much glue. Otherwise, the glue can be pressed through the veneer.

• Vacuum press/bag: This method is ideal for curved shapes. However, setting up a proper gluing setup takes a bit more time.

• Ironing veneer: Ironing veneer is only possible if the veneer is approximately 0.5 mm thick and if white wood glue is used, with baking paper placed in between to prevent burn marks on the veneer.

• Clamping: Veneer can also be glued using clamps. Make sure the material between the clamp and the veneer is taped. This prevents the material from sticking to the veneer

Tip 3: Veneer Edge Banding

Edge banding can be applied in two different ways. The most commonly used method is ABS. This is edge banding made of plastic with a wood-colored finish. It is glued on using a heat-activated adhesive on the back, often applied with an iron.

The second method is using veneer. Veneer provides a more natural wood look compared to ABS. It is glued on with wood glue.

Tip 4: Sanding Veneer

It often happens that people sand through the veneer. To prevent this, glue residue should first be carefully scraped off using a scraper. After that, start sanding gently with grit 120, followed by grit 180.

It is very important to sand in the direction of the wood grain, as sanding across the grain can cause thickness variations in the veneer.

Never keep the sander in one spot or use it at an angle on the surface — doing so increases the risk of sanding right through the veneer.

Tip 5: Veneer Possibilities

Veneer can be used in various ways. It can be bookmatched (mirrored) to create a beautiful wood grain effect. Patterns can be laser-cut into the veneer. By combining different wood types and patterns, an entirely new piece can be created.

Visit Sordile.com to explore the most unique veneer artworks.