Whether it’s a circular veneered table apron, a contemporary laminated chair back, or a flowing architectural column, if it’s a curve made with wood it’s most likely created using a process called bent wood lamination. One of the most common ways of pressing and clamping these laminations is to use a vacuum bag system.
In this video, the journeyman cabinetmakers at the Robert Treate Hogg Cabinetmakers give us a complete introduction to this versatile and useful technique. It’s a process they use almost daily. RT Hogg’s president, Michael Hoffmeier describes their method, which centers on the use of specialty 3/8th inch flexible plywood. This remarkable material (also known as wacky wood or bending plywood) can be easily formed into tight curves allowing the artisan almost unlimited design possibilities. First, the core is glued-up, vacuum pressed, and dried. And then the finished veneer is applied. With experience the process is efficient and highly controllable. In this video, learn about proper glue selection, flexible ply construction tips and tricks, vacuum bagging and veneering skills. — Keith (9 Minute Woodworking Video)
Robert Treate Hogg Cabinetmakers (pronounced “Hoge”) hand-make commissioned, limited production furniture, architectural cabinets and fixtures. Originally founded in 1936, Hogg specializes in high-end audio-visual lecterns and podiums for higher education. They are based in Oxford, Pennsylvania.
Comments
I haven’t done any veneering yet, but I have been reading about. Everyone talks about putting veneers on both sides of the substrate, to keep it “balanced”. Did they add a secondary veneer to this piece? If not, what are their views on the need to “balance” the veneers?
Thanks,
Mike
Mike,
You are correct, both sides should be veneered to balance your work piece and minimize movement. This was done on the substrate that was videoed but unfortunately did not get articulated enough as well as we should have. Although, I have seen alot of antique pieces of furniture where the table skirts and/or drawer faces were only veneered on the exterior surface with a figured wood such as crotch mahogany and they held up fine. I believe this is do to the substrate, which in those cases were quite thick and constructed from solid wood, were strong enough to avoid movement. As a general rule, it is a common practice to balance your work piece.
its not important to veneer both sides when its a curved object because it will always “kick back” a little. But when laminating flat pieces you have to laminate both sides!
How much vacuum were they pulling for that large part and how do they determine how much to pull? Is this trial & error or is there a way to calculate it? How about for the home workshop? What’s available?
Is there any recommended supplier for curved pool bridge with height of 1.4m of my design?
Keith’s Note: I’m sorry, but I don’t now how to answer that.
Really nice technique didn’t know how to make things like that.
Thanks
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