How to Apply Pine Veneer

Prep

• 1

  Sand the area to be covered in veneer thoroughly with 120-grit sandpaper on a random orbit sander. Wipe the dust from the surface with a tack cloth to promote glue adhesion.

• 2

  Measure the installation face, and mark the shape onto the back of the veneer, 1/2 inch larger than the installation face on all sides, using a utility knife.

• 3

  Pour a small amount of contact cement into a disposable plastic paint pan liner about 1/2 inch deep. Roll a medium nap roller through the adhesive to load it. Apply a coat to the installation surface and the back of the veneer with a W pattern in overlapping strokes to ensure proper coverage.

• 4

  Apply heat from a heat gun on medium high to the contact cement until both the installation face and the back of the veneer are completely dry. Allow the surfaces to cool to the touch.

Application

• 5

  Lay wooden dowels across the surface every 4 inches, overhanging on each edge. Center the veneer over the installation face and lay the veneer on top of the dowels. Remove the first dowel and press the veneer down firmly, pressing it in place from the center out.

• 6

  Remove the dowels one at a time, pressing the veneer in place as you go. Continue across the surface pressing the veneer down firmly until all dowels are removed. Press the veneer down firmly with a well-sanded wood block, with edges sanded round.

• 7

  Trim the veneer to fit around the edges with a utility knife, pressing the knife down through veneer against the edge of the installation face. Sand the edges smooth gently with 150-grit sandpaper to prevent the edge being lifted.