When building a project out of plywood, one of the things you have to consider is how to deal with the edges of your material. The easiest way to deal with the edges is to apply edge banding to all of the exposed edges. This ensures a smooth surface that can be finished out any way you choose.

If you are trying to save a few bucks or the piece you are assembling is going to be of utilitarian use then there are other methods of dealing with the exposed edges before applying a finish. Whether it be just a couple of coats of paint or varnish, the edges still need to be sealed in order to stop the absorption of the finish you are applying.

The method I use the most in the shop is to rub in Titebond Original Wood Glue or Titebond II Premium Wood Glue , forcing it in over all of the edges and then letting it dry completely. I repeat this at least once more, making sure all of it is sealed. I use Type II on marine plywood that may get exposed to moisture. I then sand the edges, making sure I didn't miss any areas with the glue. Repeat this if necessary and then sand smooth. If your paper clogs fast, then the glue needs to cure a day or two more.

If you choose to use Hide Glue , do not use it on any water-based finishing materials. The water in the finishing materials will reactivate the glue, which will create quite a mess that will have to be removed before moving ahead with your project.

Alan can be reached directly via email c/o Alan Noel Furniture Refinishing at anoelfurniturere@bellsouth.net . You can also visit Alan's website by CLICKING HERE .

Visiting Atlanta? Attend one of Alan's upcoming highly informative Highland Woodworking wood finishing seminars:

July 12, 2017  French Polish Workshop
July 22, 2017  Finishing 101
August 9, 2017  Coloring Wood