Wood veneer has a PR problem. Against their solid wood counterparts, many consumers view wood furniture that is veneered as a cheap imitation. But the truth is, veneers have a rich history dating back thousands of years, and it offers some surprising advantages.
From Pharoahs
Believe it or not, veneer has been around for at least 5,000 years. In ancient Egypt, veneer was used to decorate furniture of the elite, including their sarcophagi. Veneer has even been found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Back then, it’s believed veneer served a practical purpose – making the most of scarce wood resources in desert climates.
To The Renaissance
Fast forward to the Renaissance, and veneer was picked up by European artisans, who used it to create stunning decorative patterns on furniture. The technique continued to be popular throughout history, employed by famous furniture makers like Thomas Chippendale(arguably the most influential master furniture craftsman of his time).
So Why The Bad Wrap?
The Misconception: Often associated with mass produced furniture, veneer is seen as a shortcut. Veneer is perceived as a way to mimic the look of solid wood, but bring the cost of manufacturing down by using “the cheap wood” under the veneer.
In reality, its not a guarantee that veneer can only cover particle boards. The veneer could in fact cover solid wood that just has an unappealing grain pattern.
Peeling and Bubbling: One of the most unsightly looks for a furniture piece is when the veneer separates from the sub-wood or when moisture gets in and swells the veneer and/or substrate.
While this is a veneer problem, I contend that the problem is in the manufacturing process just as much as the products used. For example, a dining table that has an uneven or improperly cured topcoat may potentially cause the veneer to lift or swell. Make sure to research the manufacturer to ensure you are getting a properly manufactured piece.
Book Matched Veneer being prepped before application to a base wood, CC BY-SA 3.0
Wood veneer has a PR problem. Against their solid wood counterparts, many consumers view wood furniture that is veneered as a cheap imitation. But the truth is, veneers have a rich history dating back thousands of years, and it offers some surprising advantages.
From Pharoahs
Believe it or not, veneer has been around for at least 5,000 years. In ancient Egypt, veneer was used to decorate furniture of the elite, including their sarcophagi. Veneer has even been found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Back then, it’s believed veneer served a practical purpose – making the most of scarce wood resources in desert climates.
To The Renaissance
Fast forward to the Renaissance, and veneer was picked up by European artisans, who used it to create stunning decorative patterns on furniture. The technique continued to be popular throughout history, employed by famous furniture makers like Thomas Chippendale(arguably the most influential master furniture craftsman of his time).
Related Post: An Honest Guide to Spotting the Three Manufactured Wood Products
So Why The Bad Wrap?
The Misconception: Often associated with mass produced furniture, veneer is seen as a shortcut. Veneer is perceived as a way to mimic the look of solid wood, but bring the cost of manufacturing down by using “the cheap wood” under the veneer.
In reality, its not a guarantee that veneer can only cover particle boards. The veneer could in fact cover solid wood that just has an unappealing grain pattern.
Peeling and Bubbling: One of the most unsightly looks for a furniture piece is when the veneer separates from the sub-wood or when moisture gets in and swells the veneer and/or substrate.
While this is a veneer problem, I contend that the problem is in the manufacturing process just as much as the products used. For example, a dining table that has an uneven or improperly cured topcoat may potentially cause the veneer to lift or swell. Make sure to research the manufacturer to ensure you are getting a properly manufactured piece.
Book Matched Veneer being prepped before application to a base wood, CC BY-SA 3.0
Lack of Character: It’s undeniable that some solid wood grains can be stunning. This leaves some to label veneer as lacking in beauty against a solid wood grain. This leaves many feeling that veneer is lacking in character and warmth.
In truth, this is where veneer shines. Veneer is made by taking solid wood and cutting it into much thinner sheets. This allows for those superior grains to be showcased over a much larger area. You can show even more artistry by deliberately cutting the veneer into shapes, making even more intricate displays.
So, veneer isn’t inherently a bad thing. It really depends on the quality of the products and craftmanship.
So, What Are The Advantages?
Resource Efficiency: Veneer allows you to use a beautifully grained, real wood on furniture panels without the need for a massive amount of solid wood, making the use of veneer mor sustainable.
Design Flexibility: Veneer can be applied on flat surfaces or curved surfaces, allowing for grain designs that are not possible with solid wood. Veneer is also able to be cut down to furtherenhance the grain into book-match, starburst, or other artistic patterns.
Cost-effectiveness: When done well, high-quality veneer can achieve a luxurious look for a more affordable price than solid wood.
So Is Veneer Worth It For You?
Veneer, like any material, has its pros and cons. If you are looking for a durable, sustainable way to improve the add a touch of sophistication and luxury to your furniture purchase without the higher pricetag, then a top-grade veneer applied by a master craftsperson is a great option. Remember, the key is quality. Thicker veneers and proper application techniques will ensure a long-lasting result.
Veneer isn’t just about trickery; it’s a resourceful technique steeped in history that will add beauty, function, and value to your furniture.
Lack of Character: It’s undeniable that some solid wood grains can be stunning. This leaves some to label veneer as lacking in beauty against a solid wood grain. This leaves many feeling that veneer is lacking in character and warmth.
In truth, this is where veneer shines. Veneer is made by taking solid wood and cutting it into much thinner sheets. This allows for those superior grains to be showcased over a much larger area. You can show even more artistry by deliberately cutting the veneer into shapes, making even more intricate displays.
So, veneer isn’t inherently a bad thing. It really depends on the quality of the products and craftmanship.
So, What Are The Advantages?
Resource Efficiency: Veneer allows you to use a beautifully grained, real wood on furniture panels without the need for a massive amount of solid wood, making the use of veneer mor sustainable.
Design Flexibility: Veneer can be applied on flat surfaces or curved surfaces, allowing for grain designs that are not possible with solid wood. Veneer is also able to be cut down to furtherenhance the grain into book-match, starburst, or other artistic patterns.
Cost-effectiveness: When done well, high-quality veneer can achieve a luxurious look for a more affordable price than solid wood.
So Is Veneer Worth It For You?
Veneer, like any material, has its pros and cons. If you are looking for a durable, sustainable way to improve the add a touch of sophistication and luxury to your furniture purchase without the higher pricetag, then a top-grade veneer applied by a master craftsperson is a great option. Remember, the key is quality. Thicker veneers and proper application techniques will ensure a long-lasting result.
Veneer isn’t just about trickery; it’s a resourceful technique steeped in history that will add beauty, function, and value to your furniture.