I am veneering a 2′ x 4′ panel that will be dadoed into solid wood sides with its grain running vertically. Since the panel will be dadoed into the solid wood sides, would you still veneer the non show side of the panel? Thanks
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Replies
If the panel is solid wood, absolutely. If plywood, mdf, etc, then no.
If it's noticeable, then yes. If not, then you don't have to worry about cupping b/c the dado is preventing that.
If you go without a backer keep the panel in cauls until ready to install, because if left unrestrained it will most assuredly cup.
It's the glue that pulls and causes cupping as it dries.
I tend to disagree with the "no need to veneer" the back of the panel. If you only veneer the front/show side of the panel, it's more than likely that the panel won't stay flat enough to get into your frame. When you take it out of the press it'll potato chip 2x quick. Even when mounted in the frame, it'll always be under tension and stress...better chance the veneer show face will split.
The backer veneer doesn't have to be a nice or the same species of wood as the show face, but it should be the same thickness of veneer...and the same glue (dont use adhesive backed on the backer and Unibond 1 on the face). Equal thickness and equal levels of moisture introduced when pressing will keep the panel stable and flat.