I stumbled across some amazing walnut burl veneer a while ago and found a project I would like to use it on.
I an going to make some raised panels and veneer the flat part of the panel if that makes sense. My question is should I veneer first then run it thru the router or vice versa.
I have a feeling tear out is going to be a problem.
Thanks for the advice!
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In my experience, tear-out is unlikely to be a problem if the veneering is done well and the ground machines nice and clean. Depends somewhat on the thickness of the veneer tho - is it commercial veneer, or shop-cut and thicker?
My approach, all things being equal, would be to veneer the solid panels (both sides!), carefully mark out the areas to be machined, use a sharp knife to cut through the veneer just a hair on the waste side of the final size, and machine up to the mark in a couple or three steps (for the first couple at least). You'll know, well before you get to the final finish pass, whether this is going to be easy or hard!
Malcolm
New Zealand | New Thinking
repairman,
I think your instinct is right. As gnarly as your burl veneer likely is, the prudent thing to do would be to raise the panels, then veneer. Cut the veneer slightly oversize, then trim to the edge of the field after the glue is set.
Conventional wisdom says to veneer both sides of a panel, especially if it's thin. I've gotten away with veneering just the face side of door panels, which are restrained from warping by the frame they are captured in. Not telling YOU to do so, just my experience. Have to make sure your frame stock is stout enough to withstand warping forces.
Regards,
Ray
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