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Web Extra: Creating and Painting Edge Profiles

Amy demonstrates how to create and paint edge profiles on the MDF.

From "Freeform Furniture"
episode DFFF-204

Host Amy Devers creates edge profiles for the medium density fibreboard.

Amy shares tips on creating edge profiles on medium density board (MDF).

Creating Edge Profiles

A router and bit are the tools used to create quick and accurate edge profiles.
A round-over bit creates a simple rounded edge. The particular bit used on the show also has a bearing. You can get most types of bits with or without a bearing. The bearing rides along a smooth edge of the wood and controls the depth the router bit will cut into the material. When using this bit for an edge profile, make sure the bearing has enough room to ride along the edge of the board.
To create a full round-over on the edge, you may have to use the router on the top edge of the bit first and then turn the board over to cut the rest of the round-over.
In the first screen project, the hardboard template is attached to the medium density fiberboard (MDF) ribs and both are carefully guided around the router bit to shave off the excess material on the ribs. This creates a smooth, soft edge. The edges are trimmed flush with the template at a perfect 90-degree angle. Then, using a 1/8" round-over bit, a beveled or curved profile is created on the MDF ribs.
Different bits make different types of edge profiles. Another type of edge profile can be created with a chamfer bit. This is a versatile bit that makes 45-degree angle cuts.
Edge profiles can also be created by combining bits—using one bit for the top edge and a different one for the bottom edge.

Amy reveals tips on painting medium density board projects.

Painting MDF Projects

First, sand the surface and edges with 150-grit sandpaper. Since MDF is relatively fine and thin, small dents and scratches are extremely visible and destroy the illusion we want to create of an almost liquid smooth surface.
Tip: The higher the grit of the sandpaper, the finer it is, and the less material it sands off. The 150-grit is a relatively fine sandpaper, ideal for a job like this. It will remove minor marks and scratches from the MDF and provide a smooth surface on which to paint.
Continue sanding and inspecting the MDF, wiping away dust every so often to make sure not to add any more debris to the surface. Finally, make sure the surface is smooth and clean before applying any paint. If it has a dusty sheen or residue, wipe it with a damp (not wet!) cloth then wait a couple of minutes for it to dry.
Next, apply a well-stirred water-based primer coat over the entire surface of the MDF. Allow the primer to dry then give the pieces a light sanding with 220-grit sandpaper. This is a fine sand paper for finishing work. Finally, apply two coats of water-based semi-gloss paint to the surface. Again, allow sufficient time to dry.

RESOURCES :

Festool
Website: www.festoolusa.com

Stanley Tools Product Group
Website: www.stanleytools.com

Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, Inc.
Website: www.lie-nielsen.com

Power Tools
Porter Cable Power Tools
Website: www.deltaportercable.com

Gladiator GarageWorks
Website: gladiatorgarageworks.com

Hand Tools
Garrett Wade Co., Inc.
Website: www.garrettwade.com

The Peck Tool Company
Website: www.pecktool.com

Biesemeyer
Website: www.biesemeyer.com

Saw Blades
Forrest Manufacturing Company
Website: www.vacupress.com

Jogensen Adjustable Clamp Company
Website: www.adjustableclamp.com

Adhesives, Abrasives and Safety Equipment
The 3M Company
Website: www.3m.com