Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/furniture plywood

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Expert: - 4/27/2006


Question
In commonly available furniture grade plywood (oak or birch from a home improvement center) what is the grit level commonly as supplied?

Should I start resanding at 150,180 or 220?

Thanks

Carl Meyers

Answer
Hi Carl,

I think the answer to your question is a little subjective. I've purchased plywood from the major hardware/lumberyards and found varying levels of smoothness. I would start sanding with 180, and then wipe your wood clean and feel it. After a few minutes of sanding, it should be pretty smooth and upon inspection, shouldn't have any visible scratches. If it has some lines you can actually see, you might want to go back to 150 grit paper to eliminate them. But I think you'll be fine with starting at 180, which is what I normally work with as a starter.

As a wood mentor once told me- it ain't rocket scientry!

Good luck, I hope this helps. Feel free to write back with any other questions you might have after reading this.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
www.wooditis.com
Las Vegas, NV

Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks

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Jamie Yocono

Expertise

Woodworker, Furniture designer/builder, industrial arts educator. Bachelor degree in Furniture Design, and journeyman carpenter, with a 4 year apprenticeship. Currently owner of custom furniture/cabinet shop in Las Vegas, NV. Can answer most woodworking questions EXCEPT those regarding repairs, refinishing, and antiques.

Experience

Bachelor in Furniture Design - Ohio University (1980) Journeyman Carpenter, Local 639 Adult educator - Developed adult education woodworking program for the University of Akron, and taught classes there for 9 years. Opened a private woodworking school in Las Vegas, NV and teach private and semi-private lessons. In 2011, I will begin teaching UNLV woodworking classes at my school. Sweet!

Organizations
Furniture Society

Publications
Tile Design and Installation Magazine (Article on inlaying tile into wood)

Education/Credentials
Journeyman Union Carpenter Bachelors degree in Furniture Design (Ohio University) College of Hard Knocks!

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