Replies

1. 
   prbayliss | Jun 18, 2019 10:04pm | #1

   I've read that cross grain stringing and banding shouldn't be an issue. I recently added some to the top of a federal style side table. This is only a month or so old so I can't claim personal success in terms of expansion and contraction. I'll have to wait and see.

   
2. 
   bilyo | Jun 20, 2019 10:23am | #2

   prbayliss, Thanks for the comment. That is a beautiful piece of work. I hope there are no problems. Do you recall where you read the information. I would love to see if it is anything that I have already found.

3. FWW Editor
   ben_strano | Jun 20, 2019 10:29am | #3

   I can't speak from experience, but here is Michael Fortune's take:

   "String inlay works equally well in solid wood or veneered panels (and plywood, though you need to go lightly to avoid lifting the thin veneer). When string inlay runs across the grain in a solid-wood workpiece, however, the design must account for wood movement. I limit lines of cross-grain inlay to 31⁄2 in. or so in length, adding small accent details between the short sections of inlay."

   Here is a link to the article: https://www.finewoodworking.com/2013/02/07/string-inlay-made-easy

4. 
   bilyo | Jun 20, 2019 05:57pm | #4

   BenStrano, Thanks for the info. That makes perfect sense. I'm surprised that there is not more written on the subject. I have found only one article that makes a definitive statement similar to what you said:
   https://www.canadianwoodworking.com/tipstechniques/introduction-stringing-and-banding-part-2 (6th paragraph)
   The rest, I guess, assume one is going to use veneer on an MDF or ply substrate. My project is a rather large corner desk of solid white oak. I have not yet worked out my exact string work design, but my plan has been to do as you suggest or cut my stringing cross grain for cross grain locations. I've got to do some practice work on scrap before I do anything permanent.

5. 
   prbayliss | Jun 23, 2019 01:07pm | #5

   Sorry Bilyo I just saw your response. This thread has several members saying cross grain stinging should be fine. If RMillard is Robert Millard, then I value the opinion of his post.

   https://www.finewoodworking.com/forum/cross-grain-inlay-question

6. 
   bilyo | Jun 25, 2019 07:29pm | #6

   prbayliss, Thanks for the link. I have read that thread and note that most of the comments reference either rather small projects or those with veneer on a stable substrate. Since my project is rather large, I think I will follow my gut and the advice in the FWW #232 article to keep the cross-grain stringing short or I will cut the stringing from cross-grain material. I want to be cautious on this one because it will not be in my care after it is completed so repairs won't be possible. Thanks again.

7. 
   prbayliss | Jun 26, 2019 11:20pm | #7

   Bilyo - Yours is a very wise way to approach this. Certainly since the piece will not be in your care. My piece was made for me so the worst case scenario would be for me to make a new top. I wish you well with your project. Enjoy the process and post pictures if you can of the finished product!