How to Bend Thin Plywood for Just a Slight Curve
Turning straight wood into a graceful curve can be challenging but not difficult. Although it may require some experimenting, the result is well worth the effort. There are many methods, including boiling, steaming, kerfing or cutting, and even microwaving. Kerfing, by far the easiest method, involves a series of narrow slits or cuts across the back side of the wood, making the wood flexible and therefore a good choice for many projects. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose a scrap piece of the same type of plywood to be bent . Use this as a test piece before making your final cuts. Several attempts may be necessary. Have several practice pieces.
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Adjust the depth of the saw blade, so it will stop approximately 1/8 inch short of penetrating the thickness of the wood. Avoid cutting through the last layer of plywood..
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Mark the location of the cuts by placing evenly spaced lines on the back side. Space the lines approximately 1/2 inch apart, perpendicular to the direction of the bend. Saw , using the lines as a guide.
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Bend the wood to determine if the cuts are sufficient to achieve the desired result. Adjust the depth of the cut if necessary, but cut no deeper than 1/16 inch from penetration. If the wood snaps, make a shallower cut. Adjust the spacing of the cuts closer or further apart to achieve the desired flexibility..
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Mark the the final piece according to the adjusted measurements and cut on the marked lines. Bend the wood to the desired shape and clamp the wood to a form. .
Leave in place at least 24 hours.
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Tips & Warnings
If the back side is visible, cover with a veneer.
Kerfing is best used on projects where only the front side is visible.
Expect some spring-back when the clamps are released.
References
Resources
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