It used to be that veneering wood was a very time consuming task, but it has come a long way recently.There are many different types of veneer and applications that have evolved for convenience.Anyone can learn to veneer wood.Contact cement is considered to be one of the easiest and longest lasting methods.
Step 1: You can choose between a sliced veneer and a rotary veneer.
Many people don't like the appearance of the veneer that is made out of plywood.They can come in larger sheets, which may be the only option for large projects.You can get really beautiful grain detail with sliced veneer.
Step 2: Pick a random or book-matched veneer.
You can get random sets or book-matched sets.The pieces that were cut next to each other are used to match the grain patterns.This can be used to make designs.Unmatched sets may look more natural.
Step 3: Pick the application method.
There are veneer sheets that have already been applied to one side.The easiest to place are these.You will need to use the application method discussed in the other section if you get regular veneer.If you read the instructions, you should be able to tell if the manufacturer requires special steps.
Step 4: Take your choice.
The veneer is attached to the base material.If you are veneering, for example, panels on doors or cabinets, it is either another wood or a cheaper material.The man-made materials allow you to save the most money.
Step 5: Glue is the choice.
If you want to, you can use yellow or carpenter's glue.If you live in a dry environment, these will work well.These glues can cause your veneer to wander if you live in a humid environment.It's better to use a good glue.These glues are used in many other methods of veneering.If you live in a humid environment, be wary of those methods.
Step 6: To make your veneer bigger, cut it to the size you want.
Make sure to leave as little overhang as possible by cutting the veneer to the size you want.You'll most likely crack the veneer if you overhang more than a quarter of an inch.
Step 7: The cement should be applied to the substrates.
Roll the contact cement onto the area of the substrate that will be covered by a single panel of veneer using a very short nap roller.In order to guarantee 100% coverage of the surface, roll in one direction and the other.
Step 8: The veneer needs to be applied with contact cement.
Make sure to get 100% coverage when applying contact cement to the veneer.There should be no dry spots.
Step 9: Allow some time for tack.
Allow some time for the glue to dry.It should feel tacky, but not be able to hold a sheet of paper or hairs of your arm.This usually happens after 10 minutes.
Step 10: There is a sheet of wax paper
Place a piece of wax or paper on the surface.This will help you align the veneer so that you don't have to join the pieces before they're ready.
Step 11: Align the veneer
To get it into place, line up the corners of the veneer.The two sides of the paper need to be removed as you press it down.
Step 12: The piece needs to be smoothed out.
Use your hand to smooth out the piece of veneer from the center to the edges.Firm pressure should be applied to make full contact.Next, use a flat tool to smooth it out.Just like you apply the glue, smooth it in one direction and then the other.If you use a tool like a roller, it will apply weak and even pressure.
Step 13: Cut the edges.
Use a utility knife to trim the edges and then sand them with a high-quality sandpaper.