How do you iron on veneer edging?

Ironing on veneer edging is a great way to cover up the exposed edges of plywood, MDF or chipboard. It gives your project a clean, finished look and protects the edges from damage. While it may seem intimidating, ironing on veneer tape is actually quite simple with the right materials and techniques.

What is Veneer Edging Tape?

Veneer edging tape, also called iron-on edge banding, is a thin strip of real wood veneer that has an adhesive backing. It comes in different wood species like oak, maple, cherry etc. to match different types of wood. The adhesive allows the tape to adhere to the edge of the substrate when heat is applied.

The veneer tape comes in different widths like 1/4″, 1/2″, 3/4″ etc. to match the thickness of your substrate. It is available in lengths of 50 feet or more and is very inexpensive. When applied properly, the veneer edging gives a smooth, seamless look to your woodworking project.

Benefits of Using Iron-on Veneer Edging

Here are some of the benefits of using iron-on veneer edging tape:

• It covers up the layered edge of plywood, MDF etc. giving a seamless look.
• The wood veneer surface takes stain/paint just like real wood.
• It is very inexpensive compared to solid wood edging.
• Installation is easy with just an iron and a few other supplies.
• Available in different wood species to match your project.
• Durable edge banding protects edges from wear and tear.

What You Need to Apply Iron-on Veneer Edging

Here are the supplies you will need:

• Iron-on veneer edging tape
• Household iron
• Razor knife and blades
• Edge banding trimmer (optional)
• Sandpaper
• Clean rag
• Wood glue (PVA)
• Wood substrate to be edged – plywood, MDF etc.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to professionally iron on veneer edging tape:

Step 1: Prepare the Edge Surface

The edge surface needs to be clean, smooth and square for the best bond with the veneer tape. Follow these tips for preparation:

• Sand the edge lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper to remove any dirt, glue or blemishes.
• Chamfer or ease the top and bottom edges slightly to help prevent edge chipping.
• Make sure the edge is near perfect 90° to the face for proper adhesion.
• Use wood filler to patch any holes or imperfections on the edge surface.

Step 2: Cut the Veneer Tape to Length

Measure the length of the edge surface and cut the veneer tape about 1-2″ longer using a razor knife and straight edge.

This allows excess material on both ends for trimming flush after application. Make sure the cut is smooth and straight for best results.

Step 3: Activate the Adhesive with an Iron

Turn the household iron to the “Cotton” or medium heat setting. Place the veneer tape adhesive side down on a clean cloth or brown paper with one end extending just past the edge.

Position the iron about 1-2″ away from the veneer edge. Slowly move the iron back and forth over the tape for about 10-15 seconds until the adhesive softens and becomes glossy.

Be careful not to scorch or burn the wood. The activated adhesive will remain workable for a few minutes as you position the tape on the project edge.

Step 4: Adhere the Veneer Edging Tape

With the adhesive activated, promptly position the veneer tape along one long edge of the substrate, leaving about 1″ extra on both ends.

Use an iron to reheat both the substrate edge and tape backing as you slowly apply even pressure moving the iron back and forth.

Apply enough heat and pressure to get a strong, permanent bond. Take care to not burn the veneer surface. Allow the assembly to fully cool before trimming the excess.

Step 5: Trim Off Excess Material

Once cooled, any overhanging veneer tape can be trimmed flush to the substrate using a razor knife. For best results, use a specialized edge banding trimmer if you have access to one.

Score along the edge with a knife then simply run the edge trimmer along the wood edge, rotating the trimmer as you cut. This will trim off the excess veneer quickly without damaging the substrate.

Step 6: Sand the Newly Banded Edge

Chances are there will still be some slight overhang even after trimming that will need to be sanded flush. Use a sanding block and 150-220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the banded edge smooth and even with the substrate surface.

Be careful not to sand through the thin veneer surface. Sand just up to the edge and round over the corner edges slightly for best results.

Step 7: Apply Edge Sealer (Optional)

For added protection from moisture damage, you can apply edge sealing glue to the banded edges. This seals the seam and prevents moisture ingress.

Simply run a thin bead of regular PVA wood glue along the edge seams using a glue syringe or glue bottle. Allow to fully dry before finishing the project.

Applying Veneer Edging to Curves and Inside Corners

Veneer edging can also be applied to gently curved edges and inside corners with some additional steps:

• Use a hair dryer or heat gun to soften the tape and mold it gradually around inside corners.
• For curves, make shallow cuts along the back of the tape so it can bend more easily before applying heat.
• Apply heat while gently bending the tape to match the curve profile.
• Use roller pressure or a rounded object to form the tape around the profile.
• Allow to fully cool and set before trimming excess material.

Finishing the New Edge Banding

Once the veneer edging is applied, trimmed and sanded, the new edge can be stained, painted or finished along with the wood substrate it is attached to.

Make sure any surface finishes extend slightly over the edge for full coverage and protection.

The thin veneer will absorb stain just like real wood. Sand lightly between coats of finish to ensure proper adhesion.

Tips for Achieving a Professional Edge Banding Finish

Follow these tips and techniques for flawless results applying iron-on veneer edging:

• Always test the iron temperature on scraps first to avoid scorching the wood.
• Keep the iron moving constantly to evenly heat the adhesive backing.
• Use a roller or rubber mallet to apply even pressure after ironing.
• For curved applications, make small cuts in the back of the tape before heating and bending.
• Let the assembly fully cool before trimming for best bond strength.
• A sharp trimmer blade cuts the excess edging cleanly and accurately.
• Sand and finish the edges to match the appearance of the wood substrate.

Common Problems and Solutions

Here are some common problems and fixes when applying iron-on veneer edging:

Problem	Solution
Edge banding not sticking	Ensure edge surface is smooth/clean. Iron backing to activate adhesive before applying tape.
Overhanging edge band	Allow to fully cool before trimming. Use sharp trimmer blade against edge guide.
Visible edge seams	Apply pressue while ironing to reduce gaps. Sand smooth with fine grit paper.
Veneer bubbles or lifts	Avoid overheating during ironing. Allow to fully cool before trimming.
Scorching or burning	Use lower iron temperature. Keep iron moving when heating.
Loose tape after cutting	Coat cut edge with glue to reactivate adhesive.

Conclusion

Ironing on veneer edging is an easy way to get professional looking, durable edges on your DIY woodworking projects. With the right preparation, materials, and techniques, you can achieve flawless results.

Just remember to clean and sand the substrate edges properly, activate the tape adhesive with heat, apply even pressure when ironing, trim off excess material with a sharp blade, and sand smooth.

Following the steps outlined above will help you apply iron-on veneer edging like an expert for beautiful finished edges every time!