Plywood Edgebanding: A Comprehensive Guide

Plywood is a great material for DIY projects because of its availability, affordability, and ease of use. However, the rough edges of plywood can make your project look unfinished. Luckily, plywood edgebanding can make your project look like real wood.

What is Plywood Edgebanding?

Edgebanding is a thin strip of wood attached to the edge of plywood. Made from real wood, it can be stained or finished to match your project, making the plywood look nearly indistinguishable from real wood.

How to Choose Plywood Edgebanding

Most lumberyards and hardware stores carry plywood edge banding in a variety of wood types and widths to accommodate different plywood sizes. Choose a finish that matches your desired look, and remember to purchase an edge trimmer to easily remove excess.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Edgebanding Roll
• Iron
• Utility Knife
• Two C-Clamps
• Wood Block
• Trimming Tool

How to Attach Plywood Edgebanding

• Cut Edgebanding: Measure and cut the edgebanding to the desired length, leaving about an inch overhang.
• Clamp the Plywood: Clamp the plywood vertically, if possible.
• Heat the Iron: Set the iron to the “cotton” setting.
• Attach Edgebanding: Hold the edgebanding against the plywood and move the iron along the edgebanding in a smooth motion to activate the adhesive.
• Press and Cool: Use a wood block to press the edgebanding until it cools.
• Trim Excess: Once cool, use an edger to remove excess along the length, then use a utility knife to trim the ends of the edgebanding.
• Sand the Edges: Wrap a wood block with sandpaper to round the edges.

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Advanced edgebanding techniques

For more complex projects, use techniques like contour edgebanding.With advanced equipment such as edgebanders, you can work with a variety of shapes and thicknesses to provide precise edgebanding for unique designs.

Common applications

• Laminate countertop edgebanding
• Desktop edgebanding
• Desk edgebanding
• Shelves and cabinet components

With the right techniques and tools, plywood edge banding can improve the durability and appearance of your project, making it look more professional.