August 2

Demystifying Veneer: Separating Fact from Fiction in the Woodworking Industry

On this episode of Verify In Field: The Millwork Podcast, our host Jacob Edmond is joined by guest Ezra Drissman to delve deep into the world of veneer in the woodworking industry. They cover a wide range of topics, including the different types of glue used in laminate shops, the importance of using a backer for stability, and the various techniques for matching veneer sheets. Ezra, who has over 12 years of experience selling veneer, shares his expertise and knowledge on its application and troubleshooting. They also discuss the misconceptions surrounding veneer, highlighting its use in high-quality furniture and its conservation benefits. Listeners will learn about the different cuts of veneer and how it is applied to substrates to create a stronger bond. Whether you’re a weekend DIYer, a cabinet maker, or work in OEM and specialty shops, this episode has something for everyone interested in the world of veneer. So tune in and join us on this fascinating journey through the world of millwork and veneer.

About Our Guest:

Ezra Drissman stumbled into his career by accident when he took a job with a startup company. Initially hired to write content for a website, he quickly found himself responsible for creating and marketing websites as well. Despite having no background in woodworking, Ezra later became an expert in selling Sheet Veneer. He admits to not being a woodworker, but strives to be knowledgeable about his products and serve as an asset to his customers. Through his dedication and resourcefulness, he learned about veneer by Googling and researching the product.

Listen to the Full Episode:

What You’ll Learn in Today’s Episode:

  • The different types of glue used in laminate shops, specifically contact cement, and its advantages in speed and ease of use.
  • The importance of using a backer, such as a paper backer, to stabilize veneer and prevent splitting or cracking during transport.
  • The technique of cross banding to create a strong and cohesive bond with veneer, preventing splitting and cracking.
  • The different types of people who use veneer, including weekend DIYers, cabinet makers, and OEM and specialty shops.
  • The distinction between cabinet makers who work with laminate and those who work specifically with veneer.
  • The role of distributors in selling veneer to different types of shops and buyers.
  • The misconception of MDF core tables being cheap, when in fact they are used in high-quality furniture, and the importance of veneer for achieving certain design features and matching

Ideas Worth Sharing:

  • “Veneer is not fake, but rather the finest of the finest wood.” – Ezra Drissman
  • “Veneer offers more versatility and is less prone to expansion and contraction compared to solid lumber.” – Ezra Drissman
  • “Veneer is typically applied to a substrate like plywood, MDF, or particle board, creating a stronger bond and less movement.” – Ezra Drissman
  • “Only a small percentage (around 10%) of veneer is rotary cut, primarily using maple, birch, and fur.” – Ezra Drissman
  • “Quartered cut creates a linear grain pattern along the length of the tree, while plain sawn gives a cathedral-type look.” – Ezra Drissman

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