I am in the process of veneering some drawer fronts with mahogany crotch veneer. The flitch that I bought is not wide enough to do the entire front so I am going to book match consecutive leaves to obtain the width. I have a couple of questions regarding this process.
1. The veneer is not flat enough to join the book matched pieces. How do I flatten veneer?
2. The drawer fronts will be made from poplar. Is there anything that I can do to minimize checking down the road? Should I 2-ply the veneer? I plan on using Unibond and pressing the fronts in a vacuum bag.
I am open to any other pearls of wisdom that will make my project a success.
Thanks,
Tom
Replies
I lurk here and offer advice when required. I don't pitch regularly but this is what you are looking for.
Application and Usage
GF-20 - Veneer Softener
A solution to treat crotch or burl veneers and other difficult veneer with similar characteristics. The GF-20 temporarily plasticizes the cells of the veneer making them more flexible and pliable.
Recommended Procedure
Mix the GF-20 with water to a maximum of 1:1 dilution. Adjust concentration dependent on the characteristics of the veneer. Apply the solution by dipping, spraying or brushing. Make sure you obtain 100% coverage.
Allow the veneer to stand until the surface appears dry. Generally this will take 10 to 20 minutes. After they appear dry, separate the leaves with kraft paper, sandwich them between 3/4 in ply or MDF with some weight on top and allow them to dry overnight. If possible, apply heat to the veneers for better plasticizing. This can be done by either placing the veneer in a hot press, one or two leaves high for about 30 to 45 seconds or place it between heated boards. For smaller jobs cover the veneer with kraft paper and apply an iron at medium / high heat. The softening effect will work with or without heat.
NOTE:
The plasticizing effect only lasts 24 to 48 hours so it is not possible to prepare raw material several days in advance. This is a combustible liquid. Keep away from fire, flame and all sources ignition. Provide adequate ventilation at all times to prevent buildup of vapors. Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool dry place.
And to your second question
Glue Size
A resin emulsion formulated to seal the pores of wood veneer in preparation for subsequent gluing and finishing operations. Glue size retards moisture movement into and out of the veneer. It sands well and seals end grain.
Recommended Procedure
Can be used as received or diluted to a maximum of 1:1 ratio by weight with water. Maximum effect is achieved at lower dilution rates. Can be applied by rolling, spraying, brushing or dipping. Allow to dry thoroughly prior to sanding - about 24 hours. Avoid contact with iron of any kind.
Uses
Improves smoothness in finishing
Retards change in moisture content
Improves bond of finishes and adhesives to the veneer
Seals end grain to prevent adhesive penetration (butt jointing) Improves tone uniformity in finishing
Edited 3/18/2003 5:30:11 PM ET by JERSING
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