Replies

1. 
   LeeGrinding1 | Jan 20, 2003 12:41am | #1

   Here's the technique I use...

   Mix Together-

   2 parts white or yellow glue

   3 parts water

   1 part glycerin

   1 part denatured alcohol

   1. Mix all components together thoroughly and apply to both sides of the veneer liberally.

   2. Let soak for 5 minutes

   3. Place veneer between fiberglass window screen (both sides) and add 2-3 layers of newspaper on top of the screen. You may continue by adding more newspaper, screen, veneer~ etc., stacking as high as you like.

   4. Place this "sandwich" in your veneer press with a caul on top (1/4" minimum.) and apply full pressure.

   5. Change the newspaper 2-3 times the first day and leave under pressure overnight.

   6. On the second day remove the sandwich from the press and take away the screen, it is no longer needed, as the veneer will not stick to the newspaper anymore.

   7. Change the newspaper 2-3 times this day but do not put the sandwich in the press, just place weight on top of the caul to hold the5tack down. ft is easy to think this second day is unnecessary since the veneer wi// be fairly dry but it is not dry enough to press. This extra day is important for good final results.

   8. On the third day the veneer is ready to use. if you do not use it immediately the veneer will stay flat for months provided a board is placed on top of the veneer stack, apply light pressure. Newspaper between the veneer is unnecessary at this point

   Lee Grindinger

   Furniture Carver

1. 
   observer | Jan 20, 2003 09:09am | #2

   Lee, I'm curious about the purpose of the glue in the mixture you recommend. Would you enlighten me as to why you use it?

1. 
   LeeGrinding1 | Jan 20, 2003 06:11pm | #4

   The glue acts as a sizing, Dick, so the veneer will stay flat for a very long time. It has no effect on staining or finishing. Without the glue the veneer would return to it's wavy condition if pressure is relieved.

   LeeLee Grindinger

   Furniture Carver

1. 
   observer | Jan 20, 2003 07:22pm | #5

   Thanks.

2. 
   cristofol | Jan 20, 2003 11:31pm | #6

   Dear Lee,

   Many thanks for your prompt and detailed reply, I will give it a try.

   regards,

   Ian Sharp

2. 
   JerseyJohn | Jan 20, 2003 04:52pm | #3

   We offer a commercial product called GF-20 veneer softener.  Below are the instructions for use.  If you would like further information email me direct.  [email protected]

   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.