Edge banding MDF, what’s the point | Cutlist.co.uk

The fuzz

We’ve all seen an MDF cabinet which has been poorly prepared before paint. Furry edges on show forever. The fuzz, fur, fibrous edges are a result of the paint soaking into the MDF fibres, fixing them in their random order. Lower-quality MDF is more prone to this issue than the premium brands, but regardless of the brand, if the edge is not sanded or prepared properly, you’ll never get rid of the fuzz.

What’s the point?

The reason for edge banding MDF edges is to prepare the end grain fibres of the board, so it is ready to accept the primer. Edge banding is a simple way of covering these fibres and providing a smooth edge ready for paint. Ultimately, saving time is the benefit here.

In addition to saving time, edge banding MDF edges has another big benefit and that’s consistency of finish. Consistency is so important in furniture making. You could make the most complex piece of furniture, but if the door gaps go from 1mm to 3mm its going to look cheap. A consistent tolerance makes all the difference.

Edge banding MDF edges adds a level of consistency which is difficult to replicate by hand. When applied, the edge bander will machine a consistent 1mm or 2mm radius to every edge, and this detail will be the same on the first panel, as it will on the last. This is especially relevant when a team of people are working together. Edge banding will remove some of the human differences seen when working by hand, this makes for a more consistent finish, and ultimately, a higher-quality piece of furniture.

What’s not to like?

Let’s address one of the biggest reasons people choose to sand their edges over edge banding, and that’s the fear that over time, the edge banding joint will show under the paint. Obviously, sanding your edges means you avoid this risk altogether, but the truth is, with the thousands of meters of edged MDF panels we’ve completed, we’ve not seen any issues here. Like anything, done poorly, the risk of failure increases but done well, you’ve got a durable edge that will last for the lifetime of the furniture it is part of.

The decision to edge band MDF is often made on time or cost. If you’ve got the time to sand and prepare yourself then the cash-cost of the edge banding can look like an expense to be saved, but be careful before jumping into this frame of mind, your time is probably more valuable than the cost of edge banding! And time is money, right?

Top 5 Take-aways

• Edge banding MDF provides excellent consistency on all edges
• MDF edging is a quick way to prepare for excellent paint finishes
• Outsourcing elements of your work increases your production output
• Sanding edges saves the cost of edge banding but be careful to value your time
• Use a premium MDF to get a better finish if you choose to sand your edges

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Previous related blogs:

Medite or Finsa MDF? Which is better?

Why Prime your panels?

Water-based primer on our ABS-edged, MDF Shaker doors:

Craftman’s choice

Craftsman’s choice means exactly that. Every furniture maker likes to do things differently and for a variety of reasons. Some people find using a premium MDF like Medite Premier or Finsa Hidrofugo will sand beautifully and paint like a dream, and that’s cool. Others like the consistency and convenience of a pre-finished edge.

Whatever your choice, there is no right or wrong, but I’d always encourage you all to try the alternative to see what you think. What works for you, won’t work for the next person.

Frequently asked questions

A: No, The edge is finished seamlessly to the board so the joint is near-invisible. Tip; make sure you prepare your edge banding edges between paint coats for the best finish.

Q: What edge banding do you use on MDF?
A: We typically use a paintable ABS edging which works well with most paints including water-based. A plastic-free alternative to ABS is to use Maple edge banding, it sands and paints very well.

Q: Can I choose 1mm and 2mm edge banding on my MDF?
A: Yes, you have the choice to have 1mm square edge where the arris has been removed, or 2mm with either square or with a radius. The 2mm is very popular on most furniture as it is more durable and tactile.

Q: Can I use water-based paint on ABS edge banded MDF?
A: Yes, our primer service only uses water-based primer and we have been very happy with the results. We also know ABS edging takes solvent based paints very well too, but we would always recommend testing a section of edging before cracking on and spraying your project, if you are unsure.

Bio:
Written by Alex Langstaff-Ellis September 2023.
Founder and Managing Director at Cutlist and Founder, non-executive Director Langstaff-Ellis limited, luxury interior makers.