Use and Care Manual

Tips & Tricks for Working with Plywood

Plywood typically comes in standard 4 x 8 panels. However, for ease of handling, transportation

and storage, as well as less wasted material after smaller projects are complete, plywood can

also be purchased in smaller Project Panel sizes such as 4x4, 2x4 and 2x2.

Additionally, plywood comes in a variety of thicknesses. The noted nominal thickness may not

be the exact actual dimension – as is common with dimensional lumber too – but it will be

close, and certainly close enough to help you ensure that you’re choosing the proper thickness

for your project. However, “eyeballing” the thickness you’re looking for is the quickest and

surest way to make your first mistake.

As they say, measure twice, cut once.

Understanding Plywood Grades

Veneer Grades:

Veneer grades are just like school grades. A-grade has the best, most attractive appearance and

D-grade has the least favorable.

A-grade – Sanded, smooth, paintable surface without knots. Any defects were small enough to

be neatly repaired by the manufacturer using a synthetic filler. This product is ideal for

furniture, cabinets, doors or any projects where beauty is of the utmost importance.

B-grade – Sanded, smooth, paintable surface. Veneers may have only a few small knots or slight

discoloration.

C-grade – Unsanded with observable minor defects that would need to be repaired if a more

attractive appearance is desired. Knotholes may be up to 1½ inches across.

D-grade – Unsanded and potentially discolored with more significant defects and knotholes up

to 2½ inches across. This grade is often used for structural purposes or sheathing that will be

covered with other products such as flooring, siding, roofing, etc.

Cutting Plywood

Don’t own a saw? Ask a sales associate if complementary cutting is available. Some stores will

cut as many pieces as you’d like to any dimensions you need. Feel free to bring your project

instructions along so you’re ready to take advantage of this service when and where it’s

offered. The professionals are there to help!

Getting a Clean Edge

All the cuts you need to make on plywood can be made with a circular saw. A miter saw and

table saw work too – and can save time on large jobs – but the circular saw is your Swiss army

knife of saws. Whichever saw you choose, make sure you’re using one with sharp carbide teeth.

A high number of sharp teeth will ensure clean cuts, while dull blades are more likely to chew

up the edges of your panels.

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Tips & Tricks for Working with Plywood Plywood typically comes in standard 4 x 8 panels. However, for ease of handling, transportation and storage, as well as less wasted material after smaller projects are complete, plywood can also be purchased in smaller Project Panel sizes such as 4x4, 2x4 and 2x2. Additionally, plywood comes in a variety of thicknesses.
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Terms that describe cuts: Rip cut: A cut going with the grain of the wood. Rip cuts are less likely to splinter. Crosscut: A cut that is made across/perpendicular to the grain. This is where you’ll encounter problems with splintering, chipping and other symptoms if your saw blade doesn’t have an adequate number of sharp teeth. For the cleanest possible cuts every time, use masking tape or painter’s tape. After measuring your cut line, place a piece of tape over the line.
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On the other hand, some people intentionally create the “burn” effect, as it can be used to achieve a number of creative looks. It’s even possible to sand/”burn” through multiple plies, expose alternating tones and a truly unique effects, so never be afraid to experiment either. Finishing Tips Edge banding: Edge banding is an iron-on strip that covers the plies at the edges of the plywood. It’s commonly used on plywood furniture projects or any time you wish to achieve a finished appearance.