Shaper Logo

Instructions

Begin by adding 3 narrow strips of veneer under the MDF. Make the veneer “spacer” strips narrow…about 1/2” (13mm) and secure with spray adhesive to bottom of MDF. Then, use double stick tape to hold this down to your work surface. Apply Shaper tape on top…several rows. Add another section of MDF directly in front, with just double stick tape underneath. This one will have your veneer work pieces on top. The goal is to match the top surfaces of each MDF panel...one with Shaper tape and the other with veneer. Spray a very light mist onto the front piece...this MDF is the waste board. (Use cardboard shield to prevent mist overspray!) Allow it to tack up for a couple of minutes, then secure veneer with the roller. Do NOT add glue to veneer. (I did notice that whilst doing demos in San Diego, California, the veneer needed a bit more Easy Tack…most likely because of the higher humidity) We want the veneer pieces to stay in place whilst being cut, but they will need to be released at some point! This is where the painters spatulas shine! Cut all of the inlay piece(s) first. (left file) That way...when you cut the pockets or cavities (right file), you can check the inlay piece for a tight fit. If the cavity is too tight, simply cut it again with a negative value to create a slightly bigger cavity. Once all inlay pieces have been cut, flip MDF and attach with DS tape...add new veneer and cut pocket/cavities. With spatulas, carefully release "background" from MDF. On a flat, smooth surface begin adding the inlay pieces. Inside corners may need sanded slightly to create a radius that matches the router bit. Fit all the pieces like a puzzle...then use blue tape across the front side. Flip over and use spatula or putty knife to squeegee wood glue into the seams only. Work quickly, as the moisture can cause warping. Apply waxed paper, and a caul with clamps or weight. Once cured, sand the back of the assembly lightly and remove tape from front. Remove dust from backside and add this veneered assembly to your choice of substrate. It's highly recommended to add veneer to the backside of the substrate to prevent warping. Trim to size…now this can be finished as is or maybe a frame would look great..or it could be a lid for a box. Loads of possibilities!