Veneering

VENEERING MADE EASY
Do you feel intimidated by veneering? Had some bad experiences with contact cement? Lost conscienceness due to the fumes from contact cement? Well, there is an easier way. The photos pretty much tell it all, but the whole process involves white glue and a household iron. Snicker if you like, but it works.

This photo shows a paper pattern with an odd size and rather than waste wood I decided to "add" the side section. To strengthen the joint and to enhance the appearance of the finished product I decided to veneer the wood.

The core lumber has been sanded and a light, even coat of thinned down white glue has been applied. The glue must dry completely for best results.

The veneer has now been coated with the glue. Try not to get any glue on the "good" side of the veneer and this will cause problems later with staining.

The glue has dried completely on the core lumber and the veneer. It should feel slightly tacky to the touch. The lead weights serve to hold the veneer in place. Note the iron heating up in the background. The setting should not be TOO hot. I use the "cotton" setting on my iron. The "linen" setting may scorch the veneer.
Iron on the veneer starting at one end. You may want to place a "heat sink" (I use an aluminum cookie sheet) over that portion that you have already "ironed" to cool things down and make sure the glue adheres quickly.

Veneering is finished and the stock has been lightly sanded. The paper pattern has been affixed with a spray adhesive. You are now ready to cut out the part.

The part has been cut and awaits the drilling of the various holes indicated on the pattern. If you "sand to the line" now is the time to do it.

The finished part which looks a hell of a lot better than the fir plywood that I started with.

Some of you may be curious as to just what that "part" is used for. Click on the link below and look up "Galileo's Bicycle" a kinetic sculpture designed by Clayton Boyer. While you are on his website look at all the other "goodies" he has plans for. You will NOT be disappointed in the plans. I have been building things from "plans" for years and Clayton's are without doubt the best and most well designed I have EVER used.

Disclaimer: I do NOT get a discount on the price of my plans because I wrote the above!

Click here for Clayton's exceptional site!