rollers are only good for one use after they have been used to apply
the epoxy.Bickford uses a powder analine dye to stain the surface of the panel,
because it’s clear with more particles per volume than an oil-based dye,
thus giving a clearer view of the wood and its grain. Once the dye has
penetrated the veneer and dried, Bickford applies a West System epoxy,
per the manufacturer’s instructions, to help bond the next coat. When
the West System epoxy has dried, a final finishing using a varnish or
urethane is applied.
The veneer is ready to be applied to the epoxy-covered metal panel
for the final vacuum-pressing step. Bickford follows the marks he
left on the veneer the first time it was placed in the vacuum press
to ensure the veneer is placed in the same spot as the first time the
veneer and panel were pressed. Tape keeps the veneer and metal
panel in place while in the press.After coming out of the press, the veneer and metal panel are
mated as one. Since the veneer was cut larger than the panel, the
excess veneer can now be carefully shaved off the panel.