drawer and edge banding questions

[Wayne Bitting]

I’m finally building some workshop cabinets to store all of my tools so that all of the cases aren’t just stacked on one another. The drawers I’m going to be doing are about 16” wide by 26” deep. I know that some of the tools and cases can be on the heavier side (like the fixed and plunge router set) so I planning on ½” ply for the drawer bases. Can I get away with using ½” ply for the drawer sides or do I need to go with 3/4”.

Also I’m going to try the hot melt edge banding for the first time. About how long does it take to heat up and how long do you have before the glue hardens?



Thanks!

[Rod Sheridan]

Hi Wayne, in the sizes you indicate 1/2" baltic birch plywood would be suitable.

Iron on edge banding heats up pretty fasy with a hot iron, I probably spend about 10 seconds ironing on a 30" long strip. Use a J roller or a small block to press it down, pay close attention to the edges.

Once it's cool to the touch, you can trim it.

Regards, Rod.