Replies

1. 
   jackplane | Apr 22, 2005 05:49pm | #1

   It doesn't make much difference,IMO. But for tools/tables where the cutting action involves sliding, a laminate top is best. When it involves stationary holding and cutting,  I'd use either a hold-down or a porous top like mdf or ply.

    

2. 
   ring | Apr 22, 2005 07:10pm | #2

   I agree that it isn't too important.  Keep in mind a few pros and cons of each -

   Laminate is by far the smoothest surface to slide things on.  Great for the router table, but I wouldn't want it on my drill stand.

   Ply holds screws relatively well.  Good for any surface that you screw jigs and stops onto all the time.

   MDF is nice and flat (usually) but heavy.  In most cases it doesn't matter but if you need to fold it away or hang it up (I once had a router table like this) it can be a real pain. 

   DR 

3. 
   douglas2cats | Apr 22, 2005 07:55pm | #3

   Generally I prefer Baltic Birch ply, then applying laminate. I like the BB over MDF for a few reasons:

   Dont have to get special screws for the BB.

   Less dust than cutting MDF

   Most BB ply shop tables I've made end up with hardwood edging, but if I do decide to skip the edging, I don't find the plywood edge of BB to be unattractive - vs. std ply or MDF.

   If I want to put reference marks on a jig surface - whether on bare, or under a finish - it's easier to see them against the lighter BB background vs MDF.

   Just my 2 cents

    

   Waddaya mean it wont fit through the door?

4. 
   parrothead | Apr 22, 2005 11:54pm | #4

   Just be aware that these items are going to need much machining, I.E. many cuts or routes, that MDF is VERY hard on cutting tools. I built a mobile tool stand from MDF and when it was done had to have my saw blade resharpened and burned up a couple of router bits.

   Mike

   We are the people our parents warned us about. J. Buffett
1. 
   nikkiwood | Apr 23, 2005 01:50am | #5

   You must be using HSS blades and bits. Carbide cutters have no problem with MDF."I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong."
   -- Bertrand Russell

5. 
   nikkiwood | Apr 23, 2005 02:00am | #6

   If I have to lift it, I make shop stuff from VC birch ply.

   Otherwise, I generally use birch ply with a fiber (MDF) core. It is cheap, stays flat, looks nice -- but as others have mentioned, it is heavy . I always make a joint, then glue/nail it -- so MDF's screw holding ability (or lack of it) is not a problem.

   I have made some table tops for shop stuff with plain old MDF, edged with birch or pine, and varnished -- but just because I rather like the look of it.

   Melamin is fine for stuff like router table tops, but laminate is more durable. If you do use it, you might want to make it easily replaceable -- so you can drop in a new top down the line. But that is likely to be years and years.

   "I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong."
   -- Bertrand Russell