Edge banding plywood is an easy, inexpensive way to cover the edge of plywood and give it a finished look. With iron-on edge banding, you can transform plain plywood into furniture-grade wood in no time! Edge banding is a great solution because it can be installed quickly and adds durability to the edge of plywood boards.

Are you looking for an effortless way to give your plywood a finished look? 

When I installed my pull-out shelves for my kitchen cabinets and my super-handy utensil pull-out organizer, I was thrilled with the results!

Now, I feel like going back and doing one quick touch-up with an incredible product.

It can be a tad tricky when dealing with plywood because the edges typically have little divots and unappealing layers of glued pieces. 

This is where edge banding can help In this blog post, I’ll be guiding you through the simple steps to cover plywood edges using iron-on edge banding.

comparison of plywood banding with plywood without banding

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The edge banding we’re using is a veneer – a very thin piece of wood that you’ll add to your plywood edge. It comes in various colors and materials, depending on how you’re finishing your wood. 

If you plan on staining it, ensure you get the same type of wood to match your project. However, if you’re painting it, the type doesn’t really matter. 

For this demonstration, I’m using maple edge banding on cabinet-grade plywood. I’ve chosen the iron-on one because it’s super easy to apply.

showing the maple edge banding

Step 1: Set Your Iron to Cotton Setting

First, ensure your iron is set to the cotton setting and start heating it up.

Step 2: Cut The Edge Banding

Take the edge banding and place it on top of your plywood board. Cut the banding so it’s half an inch longer than you need. Remember, the banding comes in different sizes, so choose one that fits your board.

cutting the edge banding

SIDE NOTE: For 3/4″ plywood, I’m using a 13/16” banding.

Step 3: Iron On The Edge Banding

Place the edge banding on your plywood and iron it on. 

It’s best to center the banding on the edge of the plywood piece. 

Apply heat evenly, running your iron over the edge banding several times to ensure the glue melts properly and adheres to the wood.

using iron to iron on plywood banding

Step 4: Let It Cool

After ironing, let the edge banding cool down completely before proceeding to the next step. 

While it’s cooling, press down the edges to ensure complete adherence.

Step 5: Trim The Edge Banding

Next, trim the excess edge banding using an edging tool or a razor blade. 

TIP: I recommend using an edging tool because it’s easier and cleaner to use than a razor blade. 

Place the tool on the edge, slightly pressing it down so it’s the same size as the plywood piece.

Run the tool along the edge to cut off the excess banding.

using edging tool to press down plywood banding

Step 6: Cut Off The Ends

For a neat finish, use your pliers to cut off the ends of the banding. 

Ensure that the angled edge of your pliers is flush with your board for a clean, smooth edge.

cutting plywood banding on the corner of plywood with pliers

Step 7: Sand The Edges

The final step is sanding the edges using fine sandpaper. I recommend using 220-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth finish. 

Lightly sand all edges for a polished look.

using sandpaper to sand the edges of plywood banding

Now your plywood looks more refined, with the edge banding seamlessly finishing off the wood, even around the edges. 

Hope you enjoyed this simple guide on how to cover plywood edges. Whether you’re into DIY or a professional, this easy technique is sure to elevate your woodworking game.

before and after plywood banding is applied

The FULL PROJECT VIDEO:

Are you someone that does better with visuals? Check out the full project video of How To Cover Plywood Edges With Iron On Banding below, and don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube, so you don’t miss out on future projects!

plywood banding with video overlay


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