How to Cut Veneer Plywood

The process of veneering has been around since ancient Egypt.

The process of veneering is not a new one; it was practiced in ancient Egypt, where it was used it to create furniture and cases for mummies. The practice spread next to ancient Rome, China, Greece and the rest of the world. When you work with veneer plywood, it is inevitable that you will need to cut it to size. However, doing so is tricky thanks to the layer of veneer, which can chip or become ragged when you cut it. Knowing how to cut veneer plywood properly can save you both headaches and time.

Things You'll Need

• Table saw with plywood blade or combination blade
• Dish soap
• Rag
• Steel brush
• Yardstick
• Utility knife
• Backer board

Instructions

Prepare the Blade

1. Wash the table saw blade with soapy water and a rag. This will remove any sawdust and dirt that may be clinging to the blade which can mar and splinter the veneer plywood.

2. Brush the teeth of the blade with a steel brush if you are not able to remove all the grime with soap and water. Do not press too hard as it can score the blade.

3. Rinse the blade again with soap and water and let it dry.

Adjust the Blade Angle

1. Adjust the angle of the table saw blade down if the blade splinters the surface of the veneer plywood.

2. Adjust the table saw blade up if the blade splinters the bottom of the veneer plywood.

3. Monitor the veneer plywood as the blade cuts and make any necessary adjustments the instant you see the plywood splinter.

Score the Veneer Plywood with a Utility Knife

1. Line up a yardstick along the line where you wish to cut the plywood.

2. Apply pressure to the yardstick, then score the surface of the veneer plywood with a utility knife along the edge of the yardstick.

3. Apply increased pressure to the utility knife as you score the line more deeply.

4. Cut along the scored line with the table saw. The blade should cut the veneer plywood cleanly.

Cut with Two Passes

1. Raise the blade of the table saw so it will make a shallow cut in the veneer plywood.

2. Make a pass with the blade at this height, which will score the surface of the veneer plywood.

3. Lower the blade and make a second pass with the table saw. This will help keep the surface of the veneer plywood from splintering.

References

• Woodworking Tips: Cutting Plywood
• Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association: A Brief History of Hardwood Plywood & Veneer