What woodworkers need to know about plywood

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[@davidlocke9612]

Good grief, Stumpy--where have you been? Or where was I not looking? An info-dense presentation, straightforward, not condescending, richly rewarding. No boom-boom-da-boom so-called music thumping over your voice. Thanks for all of it--the attitude, the info. I'll be back.

[@bwilliams77ful]

I just wanted to know the real difference between Luan and other softwood plywood for a project. Watching this video made me realize how irrelevant it is, neither will suit my needs. Thank you immensely for this video and the information sir.

[@midtdal]

I worked in plywood and veneer plants for many years in western Canada. All the veneers were dried to a very specific moisture content before being laid up and pressed. I worked in the days when veneers were laid up by hand, cores fed through a glue machine, sheets laid by hand by sheet turners. The notion that veneers of various moisture content were "mashed together" did not exist in the plants where I worked. I fed wet veneer through dryers that were hundreds of feet long and at other times piled the veneer that exited the dry end. I piled wet veneer that exited the lathe and ran the patching machine, ones that punched out the knot holes and replaced the knots with whole veneer. The glues that we used were waterproof. It was interesting to learn about the grading system and learn more about the hardwood plywoods. Thanks Stumpy.

[@schtuke]

This guy has, by far, the best backdrop for a KZbin woodworking show.

[@rhihodag9873]

What a great educational video, James! I will definitely bookmark this for future reference. I really appreciate the brevity of your videos - - no inane banter, just the facts. Thank you for this vid!

[@SkaarsVon]

Wow. So impressive. You had so much information at all times and did it all in one take. KZbin video EXCELLENCE.

[@johnmarshall5272]

This series and your clear/concise delivery is both riveting and informative. Thanks for a geat resource!

[@CraigNorton]

I never thought I’d say that I’m very thankful for a comprehensive overview of the various plywood’s on the market. Seriously excellent video.

[@lxfxmstr]

THANK you. I learn something new every day, and this tutorial is right up there in value.

[@jporterfield]

Brilliant tutorial, James. A level of teaching hard to find on YT. Grrrreeeaaaat Job!

[@rosswaring2835]

Hi James, that is a very clear explanation of the differences and benefits of ply products. Great work!

[@WhatsupWayneLWC]

I thought I knew most everything about plywood but I learned several things from your great tutorial !

[@delikid]

THANKS! As a new woodworker, your information in this vid taught me a lot!

[@atown4428]

Thank you for your continued, educated, valuable, information. I appreciate what you do.

[@BobHerres]

James you continue to amaze... Your videos are more than enjoyable... Every minute is always fully packed with tons of great information in a very concise and well-organized format. Thank you

[@roycabalo]

I just learned so much!!! I love my woodworking and DIY for small projects and this has been really educational. I'm subscribed, teach on!!

[@curmudgeoniii9762]

Thank you so much. I have been asking about wood products and measurements etc for a long time and consistantly get differing and bs answers. Your presentation was so informative. Thanks again.

[@broakland2]

Your videos are consistently high quality, I’m gleaning so much information, thank you.

[@stephenbatley1725]

This is the first video of yours that I've seen. Instantly subscribed! You do a great job of summing up information in a way thats interesting and to the point. Will be digging through your channel seeing what I can learn. Thank you!

[@inactive67]

Holy Heck!!! I had a good grasp I thought, as Paul Bucalo said below I have a multi ply headache too. Thanks for sharing the knowledge!!!!

[@SenhorRomantico1]

I am in love!!! Seriously, the value people like you bring (without charge) to the world is amazing. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@johngreene8635]

James, this is an excellent overview of plywood and its designated grades! Thank you for sharing this as I learned a few new insights to the grades of plywood for using it in furniture applications.

[@scottjhicks]

Thank you for this video! Great info for someone learning the trade. It’s amazing how much I learn from your videos!

[@917Stefano]

Stumpy, you weren't kidding when you said this video would contain a lot of useful info. This will be helpful the next time I buy plywood.

[@myoung14]

+1. Thanks

[@semafooooo]

This is by far .. the most intellectual tutorial about plywood ever existed..... well done mate. Keep up the great lessons.

[@jamestricker3741]

Your videos could be made into a TV show. Genuinely informative, ego free, educational content. Thank you for uploading

[@abrichins]

you are a fantastic presenter. your preparation is evident.

[@crafts_avenue]

yes it did help a lot in fact, and I stumbled on it at exactly right time I need a specification on plywood. thanx a bunch dude

[@kevincooper6537]

Excellent advice for a novice 67-year-old just about to build a walk-in wardrobe (Closet as they say in the USA)...thank you.

[@bfflorida2311]

Kuddos👏👏👏 great video, your wealth of knowledge and experience is amazing. One of the best woodworking channels 👍. Keep up the awesome work.

[@124Musick]

Thank you for clarifying and reinforcing what I’ve learned within the last two years of working in a cabinetry. I cut flatwork on a CNC router, and for a long time I was just a button pusher, but now I’m starting to embrace modern carpentry, and posts like these are amazing to me. Thank you for sharing!

[@johnya7447]

Hi James. I have been watching your channel for a while now and I recently got into woodworking about a year ago. I just want to say, the tips and trick you give have helped tremendously. All though, I do make mistakes here and there, your knowledge and information have helped me prevent a lot of mistakes. Keep up the good work.

[@Selandry1]

Damn! I consider myself a veteran woodworker, but your knowledge in these videos is great and I learn a ton. Thanks.

[@herbertlumsden3730]

Dear Mr. "Stumpy Nubs". Just to thank you for your hard work, attention to truth and detail. Above all your very high standards for information, quality and your excellent teaching methods and skills. Continue your excellent video teaching and guides productions. Outstanding Sir. Cheers !

[@MrMarkpeggy]

Bless you this new year James! Thank you for the great information.

[@Christopher-pf8qt]

I’ve gotta say, your tutorial videos are some of the best on the Internet. Thanks!

[@165Dash]

Amen!

[@AnttiNannimus1]

Superb summary of a confusing topic. Thanks for doing all the research for us!

[@josephbrauer2573]

Holy crap ! I never knew there was so much to consider about plywood . I knew about the layered gluing and cross grain strength , but the different grading systems blew me away . Thanks Mr. Hamilton .

[@cgrovespsyd]

Most excellent informative and relevant tutorial. Much needed and appreciated!

[@lukes7027]

This is one of the most concise tutorials I have seen on any subject! There are an infinite number of experts in all sorts of endeavors who are very experienced at what they do. However, being very knowledgeable and experienced on a particular subject does not necessarily make you a good teacher! Knowing how to impart your knowledge to those who are less initiated is also an art that is separate from the subject but equally as important. Having deep knowledge in concert with the ability to effectively share that deep knowledge, is the reason I just decided to subscribe to this channel! Thank you Stumpy, for helping me to better understand plywood after having purchased probably several hundred sheets over my lifetime based on the looks of the wood!

[@jmelendez568]

Thanks for sharing your wisdom and experience. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve referred to any number of your videos for guidance. Stumpy you may or may not be aware but you are impacting the new generation of woodworkers so profoundly and I for one am grateful for your videos. 👍🏻

[@jonathanbrowne8884]

I'll 2nd that!

[@HeliumContent]

Adding a vote for this comment!

[@user-rn3rn6nl3h]

Agreed

[@adamcoe]

PREACH If this was the 1980s or even 90s and you wanted to take a course with even half the info on this channel it would cost 2 grand and be worth every penny. James, there are many of us greatly in your debt. Always try to make an effort to buy from your sponsors when I can (if they ship to Canada!). Appreciate your expertise and your willingness to educate others.

[@georgekaplin8738]

Great video, King James! This is great info. Your videos are gold

[@Kievlar]

Amazing!!! I have not seen a video on plywood. This one is comprehensive!

[@crossgrainwoodproductsltd9230]

James, great tutorial. I've been toying around with woodworking since I was young with my Dad and grandfather as their shop rat (grunt, goto girl lol) and I loved every minute of it! I learned so much back then. I didn't realize how much of that knowledge I had retained until I retired at 50 and built a shop in my back yard. My tutors mainly used boards of pine, oak, and ash. Occasionally walnut which has been my favorite wood. So I did know much about plywood other than there are grades. After watching this video, I feel much more confident to buy plywood. All of my shop cabinets are made from pine boards, but if I build more I'll be looking at the better grade plywood thanks to you. Thanks!!

[@robertautrey9945]

Excellent tutorial on plywood. I'll be referencing this for a long time.

[@TheRockeye007]

thanks for the info. i was the main sanding guy helping a friend building cabinets for a couple years,and it was always baltic birch that we used.i never knew why but i came to know that casey always used the best material he could get! now i know why.

[@brimtlgtr]

I've been watching more of your videos lately, and this one is excellent. I have a mix of construction-grade, "hardwood ply," and Baltic Birch plywood in my shop. I can't stand using the construction-grade because it's rough and slightly unpredictable. I thought I was buying decent plywood when I bought the hardwood ply from my local orange box store, only to quickly discover voids in it. I started buying Baltic Birch from my local lumberyard because it's stable and predictable, and I can see where the manufacturer filled in the voids. I used this for hidden lid and bottom panels for a keepsake box; I can't imagine what would've happened if I used cheaper-grade plywood. Anyway, this confirms what I've learned - thanks James!

[@ruizd14]

Thanks Stumpy. I plan to make a dresser and was going to use plywood for the carcass so I will keep this information in mind. I don't ever by plywood for anything other than garage projects from the home center. There are two hardwood retailers that I like to go to in town (WoodCrafters and Cross Cut Hardwoods in the Portland, OR area) they have both cheap and good quality plywood to choose from. Thanks for the great tutorial video as always.

[@MojoPup]

Great info presented in a nice clear concise form...THANK YOU!

[@yusukeheller168]

Excellent video. You pretty much covered everything I have come to find out on my own in my career as a cabinet and furniture maker. For furniture and certain cabinetry projects, I have become accustomed to just veneering everything myself. Custom veneer flitch selection and lay up specific to the project needs. I'll typically run a 1.5mm (1/16) veneer and throw it in the hydraulic veneer press. Also helps having a stitcher for thinner stuff to speed up the layup work. The thick stuff still gets hand taped and pressed. And if it's a really custom job like a starburst, it all gets hand cut with exacto knives and straight edges and hand taped together. As for core, I have been using a plywood from my supplier called FX Core or also known in the industry as PlumaPly. The inner layers are made from douglas fir or poplar in the same fashion as a generic veneer core plywood that we use for cabinetry casework (like pre finished maple 3/4). The faces are skinned with 1/16- 3/32 MDF depending on manufacturer. I do prefer the poplar core FX core to the Douglas Fir core stuff though. FX core is excellent for paint grade and veneer grade because it gives you a core that will hold screws and a face layer that finishes perfectly for paint or can take veneer without needing a cross band veneer layer prior to the face layer. It also comes in A1 if you want to go ahead and use it for visible casework or panels. On modern cabinetry or furniture with slab faces however, I still use an MDF core with veneered faces and 3/32 hardwood edge banding. All about the stability and remaining flat. The 1.5mm veneer does help in the wear and dings department. Im glad you mentioned Appleply. I have been getting a plywood similar to ApplePly, but without the name brand and price, made by another mill my supplier has made specifically for them. It comes in 4x8 standard sheets because who the hell wants to deal with 5x5 baltic dimensions? And thicknesses of 1/4 to 1". All of the layers are 1/16 hard maple veneers. Definitely the best plywood I have ever used and I select it for key structural components. I love having the drop cuts of the stuff kicking around because, as you said, it literally makes the BEST jigs that you can keep using again and again. Pricing isn't too painful on all this stuff either. Yes, of course it costs more than the HD/Lowes/ lumber yard stuff. But you also get what you pay for. Doing it professionally, this is why bespoke made furniture and custom cabinetry costs what it costs. We use top quality materials to yield top quality results. It also really depends on your order volume and rep. I have a business so I deal with plywood and veneer suppliers that supply specifically to the cabinetry/ furniture trades. All of the material is kept in indoor climate controlled warehouses to mitigate movement through improper storage. It still happens now and again of course, but you cut it up and make do or send it back if it's really bad. Honestly, I have really never had warped sheets arrive on the truck at my shop. Material can always bow after it's cut or from improper shop storage and relative humidity. Internal stresses occur even in plywood and it can bow as it's being cut or after. That's why you square up your cabinetry with a 1/2" back panel or break the bad piece down for smaller or unimportant components. Nature of the beast. Really never too much of an issue though in my experience. But that also depends on how you build cabinets/furniture. Great video. highly informative. This is all stuff I have floating around in my head from experience. It's cool to hear it all explained and articulated. Wish I had seen this when I was starting out! I've certainly overpaid for crap material and ordered stuff I wasn't happy with because I didn't know any better.

[@Reaperman4711]

I only caught a bit over half of that, but I'm pretty sure that in just 10 minutes you still got me well into the top 5% of the population in terms of plywood knowledge. Nice information density. It tells me what I need to know for now, and if/when it's time to know the rest, there's just 10 min to rewatch.

[@darinnetherland3466]

Great video. I was trying to make some shop shelves and tool holders from construction grade recently, and didn’t realize how big of a difference it was versus birch outside of appearance and lack of hardwood veneer. Going to bookmark this and use your info to make myself a plywood reference sheet.

[@PaganWizard]

GREAT information James, keep up the great work on your channel.

[@ryananthony4840]

I absolutely LOVE this channel!

[@rla1000]

I almost blew past this video because "I know plywood," but I learned some new things - mostly about the core of "hardwood" veneers, and it reinforced some things I already knew. Thanks for putting this up.

[@MartinMosman]

Thanks man. Answered a lot of questions I had about big box home store plywood.

[@albertshilton5336]

Stumpy, Great Video. You really know your stuff. Much appreciated.

[@slang3310]

Great overview and very well presented! Thank you! Really helpful

[@paulpinto6316]

Absolutely a great video. Cleared up a lot for me. Thanks James!

[@avryptickle]

16 year cabinet maker here. Great video. You really cover a lot of ground. I could not have made a better, more thorough, yet concise explanation. Learned a few things, too. Never understood the grading system on Baltic birch before now. Just used the price tag and a few visual cues to spot the good stuff, like veneer thickness look, and core material.

[@sanramondublin]

James , you are a great instructor. Thanks for all safety lecture. Thanks for this one also. weed end worrier . N. California.

[@JkCanvas]

Thank you for the great video and learned a ton. I now will look for plywood in other places than just the big box stores.

[@colefamilywho]

That wall... I would watch a video of you explaining every tool behind you. Seriously. Awesome video, thanks!

[@andreicharpentierquesada4530]

Im a guy thats nornally hates plywood, but you have open my eyes and bow i dont hate so much all the plywoods. Maybe some day use some in something. Thanks happy new year

[@martinwest2722]

Seminal video! One of the best you’ve done. Congrats! Not bad for a Red Wings fan...

[@erictroutman1571]

Thanks James. Always informative and relevant.

[@andy-in-indy]

I am sharing this video with my Makerspace. I get lots of questions about why some plywood works better than others in the laser cutter (mostly due to moisture pockets and voids) and this give a great description of what to look for.

[@fuerzalatina134]

you are very clever !! all your videos are very interesting!! thank you!!

[@BKMakes]

Great start to the New Year, thanks James!

[@paulvandriel2344]

Excellent info, James. Plywood is still a kind of Wild West business, with standards all over but only few stick to it. I have some pictures of plywood sold here in Thailand, you won't believe it. I'll PM to you so you can have a good laugh.

[@WrongTimeWatch]

Novice woodworker here. I bought and used a 3/4 router bit to dado for bookcase shelves about a month ago. Good thing I did some test fitting first. Had to delay my project so I could buy the undersized router bit.

[@kad1273]

Very timely information. I feel like this segment of the market gets more confusing every day with the impacts the pandemic is having on the supply chain. In my cabinetry work, I continue to learn new things all the time and this was excellent. One note, you said the higher the number and letter the better the plywood but the engineer in me cringed since the lower number/letter is the higher grade ... unless I am missing something. (Apologies if this is somewhere in the abundance of the comments on this video). Thanks again for the insights. Great job!

[@TheMrAshley2010]

Thanks for posting content on New Years day!

[@CatCityDesign]

Amazingly informative video - as usual. Loving your stuff!

[@Chef_PC]

I guess you got this video idea because of the troubles you had with your shelving....the best content is always gained from experience. Great video and one I’ll come back to often.

[@StumpyNubs]

Yes I did. I figured our viewers would like a more thorough explanation of plywood types. :)

[@Yawles]

Color me educated and informed! Thanks again, James!

[@samipietila1661]

Thanks for the informative video. I work with Finnish birch plywood and the quality range is pretty wide. Nice to hear about the stuff you guys use. Lots of interesting options you have there :D

[@allynmcfarlin2074]

Well, well done. Thank you for an excellent tutorial.

[@robertwiggler4193]

i just picked up 3 sheets of 3/4 4 by 8 Baltic Birch for some cabinet doors $125 a sheet ..flawless wood im very happy with it !!

[@hansdegroot8549]

Great explanation on plywood. Thanks for sharing.

[@irakopilow9223]

My hardwood dealer also carries a combi-core plywood. It has conventional inner veneer layers and a thin layer of MDF under the face veneer. I like this because it is not as heavy as a straight MDF core, does better with fasteners, and you have a very smooth and stable face.

[@donalso]

This video was particularly insightful. Thank you. I did a kitchen several years ago with some 50,000 dollars involved. I bought laid up birch plywood for a big (at the time) price. so nice!!! Every time I am forced to use big box store plywood these days I cringe. But you know, one gets better at dealing with cheap ass thin veneer layers and structurally compromised plywood panels .Add your own structural antidotes. If you want excellence you are going to have to spend some money. If you want to be excellent, you are going to have to change with the times, adapt and maintain a higher standard of yourself. May the twain meet.

[@kennyg6482]

Good video and good information. I break out in a sweat when I start to cut that high dollar plywood. Also had to order a new straight bit for the thinner 3/4 inch plywood.

[@tomhollins9266]

Excellent info. I'm not a woodworker but this is good to know in general.

[@aligned4good]

Thank you so much for the great information! I learned so much. Truly appreciate it.

[@watermain48]

Great discussion James, thanks for posting it.

[@alsutton3779]

Great video James - very useful, thank you from 🇫🇷

[@mikevyvyan7060]

Thanks James very instructive and helpful.

[@ElCidPhysics90]

Great video with useful information. Thank you for your content.

[@AGregPalmer]

Thanks James. Grades are different again here in Australia but that doesn’t mean I didn’t learn a lot from you.

[@MurphyBedStudios]

Very informative video! It is so important to know the differences!

[@Ammon6]

You got a beautiful and well organized toolset

[@Unpeturbed]

That was fabulous information. Have bookmarked the video and figure I’ll scribble down the information in hard copy so when I visit the wood store, I’ll actually have something intelligent to ask about... (new woodworker here.). On another note; I applaud your drink holder as I am from the birthplace of Geordie Howe...

[@timothykeech7394]

Your explanations are excellent and fluently delivered. The impression is that here is someone who really knows what he's talking about , which is true, obviously. A brilliant source of information, tricks of the trade and knowledge of all aspects of high quality woodworking. I am very impressed. Keep up the good work.

[@bradherring4698]

Amazing explanation. Thanks for another great video!

[@paweladamczyk4043]

Poland shore line with Baltic Sea is 528km long and birch trees grow in large numbers in every Polish forest. My grandad's farm land has been converted into birch forest 25-30 years ago and some good few tons of it sold for top dollar price. Love your videos James. I've learnt a lot from you. 👍

[@StumpyNubs]

The "Baltic States" is a geopolitical term that refers to Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. It does not refer to every country which touches the Baltic sea.

[@paweladamczyk4043]

@@StumpyNubs Well, I hate politics and geopolitics too, even more now, after you told me Poland isn't a Baltic country. How disappointing. My grandad's trees will not take it lightly! 🤪

[@wb_finewoodworking]

A good explanation of plywood. Thanks.

[@pinkponyofprey1965]

Well, now I was lucky to stumble over this video BEFORE I proceeded with what I need to do haha! :D I better pay to avoid the headache for the lifetime of the stuff I'm about to build, so thank you very much! Never judge a sheet of plywood by its cover ...

[@tomlott6513]

Fantastic video. Very informative and interesting. Thank you!!

[@jimb9369]

Thanks for the info. I've been making custom furniture for 30+ years and never bothered to learn much about Plywood. Got a load from South America that was 10 layers and it is great. Used for transporting concentrated juice in Containers then thrown in the trash. The only problem is bugs. Have to vacuum treat each piece to kill the larvae. Otherwise great wood.