Replies

1. 
   LarryPile | Oct 05, 2002 08:13pm | #1

   I've done this two ways:

   The easiest way is to buy 3/8 plywood already grooved for this purpose.  It's not that expensive and you just veneer after it's bent to fit.  Try a large plywood supply house or a cabinet shop.  I forget what it's called..there is a slang name also...

   The less-predictable way is to get 1/2 or 3/8 plywood and cut grooves with the table saw about every 1/4 - 1/2.....again, it depends on the thickness of the plywood, the radius of the curve and the depth of the groove.  I've cut 12" X 12" pieces and experimented.  It sure is a hassle to cut all of those grooves in plywood..and if you're doing a big piece, you need a wide table and a helper to get the grooves right.

   Good Luck!

   lp

1. 
   famousdoctor | Oct 05, 2002 10:12pm | #2

   Thanks for the feedback, guess I'll have to experiment on number, spacing.  Haven't done any veneering, so I don't want to take that on as well.  I have a finger joint tool that should help in speed, accuracy, as well as spacing.  With a 30" diameter top I figure to have a 22" diameter for the apron.  Will let you know how it turns out.

1. 
   UncleDunc | Oct 05, 2002 10:18pm | #3

   You can also buy bendable plywood. Do a search for a recent thread that discussed whacky wood or bending plywood. You'd have to put some veneer on the apron after you got it made, but that might still be easier than all that kerfing. Might also make a sturdier table.

2. 
   catford | Oct 08, 2002 02:33am | #5

   I can save you a lot of time and experimentation. See WOODSMITH No77 October 91 has a whole section on bending plywood using kerfs.They spell out the  spacing of kerfs depending on the curve. In brief

   Using 3/4 thick plywood

   Max 24 inch radius  kerfs every 3/4 inch spacing

   Max 12 inch radius  1/2 inch spacing

   Max 6 inach radius 1/4 inch spacing

1. 
   famousdoctor | Oct 10, 2002 05:37pm | #6

   Thanks for the formulas, will be a great help, timesaver

2. 
   famousdoctor | Oct 10, 2002 05:40pm | #7

   Just to clarify, the 3/4 spacing would then work for a 13" Radius on a 26" diameter?

1. 
   catford | Oct 10, 2002 08:30pm | #8

   Yes , keep in mind that the wider the spacing the greater will be the flats on the curve. You can sand these a little, but not much or you will sand through the veneer. The reverse holds.  The closer the spacings tighter will be the curve with little flats.

2. 
   Splintie | Oct 07, 2002 06:47am | #4

   spacing of the cuts on the back... 

   Do a Google search on "bending wood kerf cuts". Tons of stuff there. Here's one if you like math.

3. 
   catford | Oct 10, 2002 08:44pm | #9

   By the way, another way for bending wood around a curve is the get bending plywood. You then clamp and glue around a form this way you avoid any flats.You would then have to veneer the outside surface