There are a few tips and tricks we wished we had learned prior to applying edge band veneer. Here is a way to make the process easier:
Step 01. Buy Right Size Veneer
Try to buy the veneer that is as close to the size that you need. It’s possible to use 3/4-inch veneer on 1/2-inch pieces you just need to be a little more careful.
Step 02. Get Tools Together
We don’t recommend grabbing your good iron, unless you want to get another iron. There is a chance that you’ll end up with some glue on the bottom even with using the tinfoil trick to protect the bottom of your iron. A sharp knife and sanding block help with trimming the veneer to exact width that you need.
03. Cut to Length
The veneer has a strong tendency to want to curve because it was rolled. Cut a piece that is slightly longer than what you need. It doesn’t hurt to mark a line that is square before you cut. A strong pair of scissors can cut the veneer fairly easily.
04. Apply Heat
There is glue on the bottom of the veneer that needs to be softened by applying heat with the iron through the veneer. The tinfoil helps protect your iron and seems to save the veneer from darkening slightly. This is a hot job and the glue will burn. We set the veneer in place and heated up near the starting edge. Once sticky, we finished the end and then slowly worked our way down the strip. We were super careful not to press and slide the iron as it tended to pull the veneer with it. We let the veneer cool before the next step.
05. Trim Excess
We found it easiest to press the veneer strip down on the sides to create a crease and then cut along it. With the Olfa knife, we were able to extend the blade and drag it slowly along the shelf or drawer side. The careful part here is not to remove the veneer that is covering the edges. It’s a pain to reheat the veneer and remove it, scrap the glue, and then start again – trust me. Sand the edges of the veneer lightly careful not to pull on it so that it doesn’t break or come off.
That’s it! Veneering is easy and it has a fast learning curve.
Back to our Featured Articles and Home Page
