On 2/11/2014 1:53 PM, -MIKE- wrote:
On 2/11/14, 12:38 PM, Leon wrote:
One other method that I used to use was lay a strip of masking tape
down over the line to be cut. The tapes helps to hold the wood,
that might splinter, in place. The problem I had was removing the
tape, unless you were very careful with the direction that you pull
it, you might do more harm.

It only takes one time to learn the lesson on that! :-)

I worked with some pre-finished birch plywood from a local supplier for
the first time on a recent project. I was amazed at how the finish
prevented most tear-out. Ever since then, I have started to put most of
the layers of finish on plywood before cutting (or right after rough
sizing). Not only does it cut down on tear-out, but it's so much easier
to finish those larger sheets. Then you're left with minor sanding and
the final coat on the finished project.

If you don't want to go into too many finish steps on the plywood, I
have found that even a coat or two of sanding sealer helps with tear-out
and also makes the sheets slide across the table more smoothly.


it also wears out the cutter quicker. Sanding sealer probably less than
a poly. But I agree, pre-finishing would be easier on large ply
panels... . Tough to match up face frames though. Much easier when you
are working from the same mix, not further down in the can..

--
Jeff