DIY Veneer

Fill any voids or seams in the area you intend to cover with veneer with wood filler. Allow the filler to dry completely. Sand the surface flat with 150-grit sandpaper. Measure the veneer installation area and mark out a piece on the veneer 1/2-inch larger than the installation area and cut it out with a sharp utility knife.

Apply a layer of contact cement on the installation area and on the back of the veneer with a medium nap paint roller. Work in overlapping strokes in a "W" pattern to ensure proper coverage. Cover the entire face, working back over it where necessary so that none of the material surface shows through. Allow the cement to dry to the touch.

Position 3/8-inch thick dowels across the surface every 6 inches. Position them so that they hang off the edge of the installation surface on both sides. Position the veneer with the cemented side down over the installation area so that it is centered, with the edges overhanging the installation area.

Lower the veneer onto the dowel rods. Remove the first dowel closest to the edge and press the edge of the veneer down firmly onto the installation surface. Remove the next dowel and continue pressing the veneer smooth, working from the center out. Continue removing the dowels one at a time, pressing the entire piece of veneer smooth.

Roll over the veneer with a J roller to press out any bubbles. Press along the edges as well, inspecting them to ensure they are firmly adhered to prevent them pulling up. Trim the edge of the veneer off flush with the edge of the installation surface, pressing the utility knife down against the edge of the installation surface. Sand the edges of the veneer with 150-grit sandpaper.

Apply two coats of all-in-one stain and clear finish with a soft-bristle paintbrush. Run the brush in line with the grain. Apply it as smoothly as possible to prevent runs and drips. Allow two hours between coats and 24 hours for the finish to cure completely.