Replies

1. 
   x372sailor | Jan 17, 2005 08:22am | #1

   They will be heavy.  You should use fasteners suitable for MDF.  Protect yourself from the dust during fabrication.

   One thought, to reduce weight, you could put 1/4" MDF in framed panels, to reduce weight.

   Just my $0.02.

   Brian

2. 
   hammer1 | Jan 17, 2005 08:33am | #2

   Do yourself a favor and use 3/4" birch or maple plywood.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

1. 
   Dave45 | Jan 17, 2005 05:22pm | #3

   I would go with birch or maple plywood and poplar for any solid wood parts.  MDF is extremely heavy and it's a PITA to get good mechanical attachments (screws, etc.).  It's also pretty easy to "ding" the high wear areas.

3. 
   woodensplinter | Jan 17, 2005 05:32pm | #4

   Althought I've never used it, you could look into MDO plywood.  Basically, plywood with a paper face, like MDF.  Supposed to be a sign makers' favourite because it takes paint well.

   2 more cents worth.

4. 
   nikkiwood | Jan 17, 2005 05:52pm | #5

   MDF will work fine, altho I would recommend that you band the edges with solid wood -- since then it will be easier to paint (the edges).

   Even though it is indeed heavy, I always prefer a fiber core (MDF) even when using veneered plywood -- simply because it is flatter than ply with a veneer core.

5. 
   GRW | Jan 17, 2005 08:53pm | #6

   Ricky,

   I use 3/4" birch plywood for larger panels and poplar or brown maple for face frames and drawers.  I've had good results with these materials and the cost is fairly low.

   Good luck.

   GRW