re: Plywood ends

Sometimes I use joint compound on the edges, but only if it’s a small project and if it’s either disassembled or easy to sand. 2 quick coats with the fan running to help it dry. It sands smooth easily and it’s more durable than it sounds once it’s primed. Obviously you can only do that of you plan to paint it, but it’s cheap and easy. It’s a pain and messy for larger projects, though.

My woodworking mentor showed me how to edge band with the iron on banding like a pro. The trick is to press it in by rubbing it with a block of wood, then trim it with a bastard file. I can make it look seamless when the edge runs with the grain. And so far, it’s been very durable on everything I’ve applied it to including drawer fronts that get a lot of use and the bottom of my file cabinet that I keep kicking and stepping on accidentally. You can also make faux mitres by mitring the banding. Neat trick.