SUMMARY

PROPERTIES AND APPLICATION	PAINTING ON BALTIC BIRCHWOOD	CUSTOM VS. STOCK SIZE, PANELS/SHEETS	HOW TO ORDER?
Baltic birch plywood is unique in that it is constructed with a solid and thick birch veneer core with multiple layers or plies, which is then cross-banded and laminated with a strong wood adhesive. This following section will explore, properties and advantages of working with birch material.	Few simple steps and tips that can be taken to ensure that a Birchwood board is properly prepped and well protected for oil and acrylic painting.	Comparison of stocked and custom-sized wood panels/sheets	Click here for Custom Size Panels. Click here for Stocked Size.

1. Smooth joining on the edges as birch plywood does not have any voids.
2. Ability to hold screws well; The strong core of the wood allows the screws to grip better, as it does not tend to grip well soft-cored wood.
3. Strength and sturdiness; the veneer core and cross-banded layers attribute to the plywood's strength and durability, making it less susceptible to warping and breakage and increases its archivability and longevity.
4. Birch plywood is void-free and tends to have a thicker veneer core than traditional plywood.

Due to its many advantages, baltic birch plywood can be an ideal substrate for woodworking and large art projects. Birch plywood is generally used for the following:

• Furniture and furniture support
• Cabinet-making
• Drawers
• Laser cutting and engraving
• Tool stands
• Fencing
• Craft tables
• Wood veneers
• Skateboards
• Signage
• Flooring
• Sheathing

Ideal substrate for woodworking and large projects.

Preparation

1. With a damp cloth, gently wipe the surface of the plywood. Water will cause the grain to rise which will allow for better grip and make the sanding process easier. Use sandpaper with 100-120 grit and sand the wood surface. It is important to note to sand with the grain (the same direction as the grain growth), not against the grain.
2. Sand the surface a second time using a higher grit sandpaper (ideally 200 or 220-grit sandpaper) to ensure a smooth face. This will allow the paint to better adhere to the wooden surface. Wipe down the sand residue with ethanol (known as ethyl alcohol or denatured alcohol).

Sealing & Priming

Note that this step is essential in creating a base for the paint to adhere to the wood surface, as well as protect the wood surface underneath the paint from making contact with the inside of the wood, which may affect the structure and fibers. Sealing also ensures the longevity of the panel.

1. Once the panel has been prepped, apply a sealer. Applying a sealer will create a barrier between the panel and the paint. This will prevent the oils from the paint to seep into the wood, which may cause the wood fibers to rot. Additionally, applying a sealer will ensure that the wood surface does not turn yellow or discolor overtime. Furthermore, sealing will prevent the wood from warping when exposed to factors such as weather, moisture, and humidity.
2. Once the sealant has dried, coat the surface with a paint primer for wood or Gesso. Allow the primer to dry before lightly sanding and wiping residue. Apply a second or third layer, sanding after each layer has been applied. Applying primer on top of the sealer will allow for better adhesion and a smoother surface for painting.

Once boards are prepped, it can be used to create art. Here is an example of dry mounting on wood panel w/ resin coating.

Custom-sized wood panels: Custom-sized wood panels come in 1/8" or 1/4" thicknesses and can be custom cut from 4 by 4 inch to up to 120 by 60 inch (5ft by 10ft).

Stocked size: Stocked panels range from 4 by 4 inch up to 60 by 40 inch. Currently, we offer baltic birch stocked wood panels in two depths: 15/16" and 1-5/8" depth.

Birch plywood boards/sheets: We also offer birch plywood boards/sheets in 1/8" ( approximately 3mm) thicknesses and offers sizes ranging from 4 by 4 up to 48 by 60 inch (4ft by 5ft).

1. Click on Custom Size Panels.
2. Enter exact dimensions (width and the height) and the number of quantities (QTY) on Price Calculator.
3. Click Calculate Results. Based on your added information. A list of options will be generated. Click Add to Cart to proceed. Once again review your order. Add notes for specific instructions and update any changes.
4. Finally, press Checkout to place an order. You will receive an order confirmation email.

For Stocked Size:

1. Click on Wood Panels, Stocked Size.
2. Based on your particular preferences, you may choose Standard 15/16 inch deep, Profile 1-5/8 inch deep, Wood Painting Panel w/edge or Round wood painting panels.
3. Enter quantity (qty). Click Add to Cart to proceed. Once again review your order. Add notes for specific instructions and update any changes.
4. Finally, press Checkout to place an order. You will receive an order confirmation email.

For more information on Cradled wood panels, check out our Guide on Birch Wood.

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