One of the great things about peel-and-stick veneer is that, notwithstanding how easy it is to use and apply, it offers an indistinguishable finish from solid wood, and one that can be finished in the same manner. Keep in mind that peel-and-stick veneer is also known as PSA (pressure-sensitive adhesive) veneer, and 3M sticky-back veneer as well.
Veneer can be sanded, stained, and sealed, just like solid wood, but there are a few things you need to know about it, included here.
Sanding Wood Veneer
While peel-and-stick veneer can and should be sanded before you apply a finish, you cannot be as cavalier in your treatment of it as you are with solid wood.
For one, stay away from power sanding equipment. Sand your wood veneer by hand. If you sand aggressively and go too deep, exposing the backer (sand-through), you will have ruined the project.
The veneers are production sanded at 180 grit so start there. Sand by hand graduating progressively to finer grits.
Veneer sheets and panels are very thin, so you won’t have the flexibility to make multiple passes. The goal is to do it in one shot.
After sanding, before you finish (regardless of the finish you use) wipe the surface of the veneer to clear it of any sawdust which will prevent adequate adhesion.
Applying a Stain
One of the most popular ways to finish wood veneer is with a stain, which is remarkably easy to do.
After you have sanded and cleaned your veneer surface, apply a thin layer of stain with either a brush, sponge, or rag.
Let the stain soak in for a few minutes, typically about 5, and then wipe off the excess stain with a clean rag. (If manufacturer instructions differ, follow those.)
If one coat doesn’t darken the wood to your liking, apply a second in the manner described above. When completely dry, finish as usual with polyurethane or lacquer, following manufacturer instructions.
Looking for High-Quality Peel-and-Stick Veneer?
Interested in peel-and-stick veneer for your next project? Visit Oakwood Veneer online via the previous link.
They carry a wide range of different domestic and exotic species in peel-and-stick formats that are easy and cost-effective to apply.
For more information on their wood veneers, how to apply them, or how to finish them, get in touch with them at 800-426-6018.
