Replies

1. 
   user-52008 | Oct 25, 2006 05:07pm | #1

   Steve--You could probably do the job for less if you use curly maple veneer on MDF cores for all your panels. Other than that, regular flat-sawn maple panels within cherry frames would still work as a handsome combination.

1. 
   SteveV | Oct 26, 2006 03:06am | #2

   I had thought of using veneers but was hoping to have a raised panel affect. I think going with the regular maple will be the best bet.  Any suggestions on an oil finish?  I have been working with Water Lox on a work bench I built but have not used it on cherry yet.

1. 
   user-52008 | Oct 26, 2006 04:29pm | #3

   Steve--I did make the erroneous assumption that you were using flat panels, sorry. It is actually possible to make raised panels with a veneered core--(I did it once on a blanket chest made of cherry and birdseye maple)--but what you save in materials costs is probably outweighed by the additional labor. What you have to do is to make a mitered frame of lumber around the MDF core, lay up the veneer and then shape the raised edges. This technique is considered "premium grade" by the Architectural Woodwork Institute because you end up with raised panels that are a lot more stable than solid lumber. The downside is, as I said, that it entails a lot more work.

   WaterLox, a tung oil/resin mixture, is a fine choice for a finish on your project. Good luck.--BD

1. 
   SteveV | Oct 27, 2006 07:33pm | #4

   Excellent idea!!  Guess that's why you are the expert. 

   If I were going to go with flat panels to save the labor, could I create the cherry frame and glue the mdf panel to it (tongue and groove) or does it still need to "float" in the frame.  I just don't want an un-veneered seem to show.  I know the MDF is very stable but just need to ask.

   Thanks again for the ideas!

   Steve

1. 
   user-52008 | Oct 27, 2006 08:07pm | #5

   You're better off floating MDF panels within the lumber frame. There's no real need to glue them. MDF is a whole lot more stable than solid lumber, but it is made from wood fibers, and it will swell and shrink some with humidity changes, as will the lumber frame.

2. 
   SteveV | Oct 27, 2006 08:23pm | #6

   True.  Well it is off to the drawing board to make the final decisions.  Again thanks for the advice.

   Steve