How to Cover Plywood Edges with Edge Banding -

In this post, I will show you how to cover plywood edges without any special equipment.

If you’re a visual learner, check out the detailed YouTube video that complements this blog post. It covers each step visually and provides additional tips and techniques to achieve a seamless finish when applying edge banding to plywood.

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What I Thought Before DIY

Before starting DIY projects, I believed every piece of furniture was made from solid wood, which is why the edges were always smooth. I didn’t even know plywood existed until I built my garage cabinets.

While solid wood furniture is beautiful, it can get expensive depending on the project. Plywood is an affordable alternative for building furniture, but the rough edges often don’t look as polished.

That’s where edge banding comes in.

What is Edge Banding?

Edge banding is a thin strip of wood veneer, typically sold in a roll with adhesive backing. It can be applied to plywood edges or even on the end grain of solid wood. Available in various widths and wood types, edge banding can be stained or painted to match your project.

Edge banding comes in different widths, most commonly ½ inch and ¾ inch. You can buy smaller rolls from home improvement stores or larger ones on Amazon if you plan on using it for multiple projects. One side is smooth (exposed side), and the other is rough with adhesive.

How Edge Banding Works

Edge banding adheres to plywood when the glue melts through heat—typically from an iron.

If you are planning on staining your project be sure to get one that matches the plywood you are using

Supplies Needed

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Edge Banding

Step 1: Prepare Your Plywood Edges

Make sure the edges of your plywood panels are clean, smooth, and free from any debris. Sand them lightly with 220 grit sanding sponge to create a smooth surface for better adhesion.

After sanding, be sure to wipe away any excess dust.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Edge banding

Measure the length of the plywood edge, and cut the edge banding strip with scissors slightly longer than needed.

Step 3: Position the Edge Banding

Place the edge banding strip onto the edge, ensuring it aligns perfectly. To make the process easier, use a piece of painter’s tape to hold one end of the edge banding in place. This helps keep the edge banding from shifting while you work. Here’s a close-up of me doing that.

Step 4: Apply Heat to Activate the Adhesive

Using a household iron, set to its highest heat with steam off, apply heat along the edge banding to activate the glue. Slowly move the iron across the banding, pressing down to secure the adhesive.

This may require a couple of passes. Work in small sections, and don’t leave the iron in one spot too long to avoid burning the veneer.

Step 5: Press & Secure

Once the glue is melted, press the edge banding down using a scrap piece of wood or a rubber roller to ensure it sticks.

If the edge banding does not stick well just go back over it with the iron and reposition if needed

Step 6: Trim the Excess

After the edge banding cools, use a utility knife to trim the ends.

Since the banding is often wider than the plywood, use an edge trimmer to remove the excess.

Step 7: Sand for a Smooth Finish

Lightly sand the edge with a 220-grit sanding sponge to smooth out any rough areas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edge Banding

Can edge banding be stained or painted?
Yes, edge banding can be both stained and painted, depending on the material. Wood veneer edge banding is the best option for staining, while other types can be painted to match your project.

Can edge banding be sanded?
Edge banding can be lightly sanded to smooth out any rough spots. Use fine-grit sandpaper, such as 220 grit, for a smooth finish.

Can you put edge banding on MDF?
Yes, edge banding can be applied to MDF, making it an affordable option for improving the appearance of MDF furniture or cabinetry.

Which edge banding is best?
The best edge banding depends on your project. Wood veneer edge banding works well for natural wood looks, while PVC and melamine options are durable for painted finishes.

When should I apply edge banding?
Apply edge banding after cutting and sanding your plywood or MDF panels, but before assembling your furniture or cabinets.

What is edge banding on wood?
Edge banding is a thin strip of wood veneer or other material that covers the raw edges of plywood, MDF, or particle board to give it a finished look.

How to apply edge banding?
To apply edge banding, cut it to size, use an iron to activate the adhesive, and press it in place. Trim any excess and sand the edges for a smooth finish.

How do you edge band plywood?
Edge banding plywood is done by applying a veneer strip to cover the rough edges using an iron-on adhesive. Once applied, trim and sand the edges to finish.

How to Cover Plywood Edges with Edge Banding

What I Thought Before DIY

What is Edge Banding?

How Edge Banding Works

Supplies Needed