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Applying the Laminate The coffee table laminate top is applied. From "Freeform Furniture" episode DFFF-113

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Figure B

5. Paint the glue on the coffee table and on the back of the laminate. Let it dry for 30 minutes. Then carefully line it up and press it into place.

6. Apply that coat to the two ends of the coffee table.

7. Let this dry for 30 minutes before you put them together.

8. You can then begin the laminating. It can be tricky because the laminate bonds permanently on contact with the adhesive. If the laminate is not properly aligned and you make a mistake, you have to start all over.

9. Once you have the laminate lined up perfectly, firmly press it into place from one end of the table to the next (figure B). It is extremely important to apply even pressure all around for a solid, even bond.

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Figure C

10. Use a J-roller to press the laminate into place.

11. Since the laminate bonds hard on contact, it is ready for you to trim with the laminate trimmer. The trimmer works much like a hand-held router. Ride the baring and the bit just along the edge. Trim off one piece at a time, starting with the ends, the sides, and then the bottom and the top (figure C).

12. Continue gluing the strips of laminate to the sides of the piece. Use the J-roller and then grab the laminate trimmer again. Sweep away the excess dust.

13. Once the edges are on tightly, grab the ruler. Mark the lines where you want to create the border to place the band of burgundy laminate on top.

14. Tape the laminate to the table with the other two wood grain pieces. This will allow you to place it directly onto the laminate already lined up as a single piece as opposed to three.

15. Flip it over and start applying the blue contact adhesive onto the work piece and the laminate.

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