This stuff changed my mind about MDF projects

27 Replies to “This stuff changed my mind about MDF projects”

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2. I've often wondered if there is LDF or HDF as well as MDF?

3. yeah N95's are pretty much useless against dust and anything smaller (like things that escape laboratories).. a full faced mask with filters is the best option to protect against micro fine particles

4. Biscuits are a great way to join MDF edges. Water resistant MDF (such as Medex) is way superior to standard and especially lite weight MDF. You still need pilot holes for edge screwing, but it doesn't split nearly as easily either.

5. MDF doesn't just come in a single type. The stuff you get at the large box stores tends to be rather fluffy in the middle and doesn't rout or mill very nicely. It's also much harder to get a mirror finish on it. If you have access to a lumberyard that sells the nicer varieties (things like Glacier Green, Ranger Board, Medite, Arauco double refined, etc) you'll get a better result in my experience.

6. Well, MDF is really just cardboard.

7. Is this the same as working with melamine?

8. I missed it What is the "stuff" in the title? It was not the goo in the thumbnail. Thanks!

9. I like using confirmat screws for MDF and particle board. Combined with a confirmat drill bit makes using the screw fast and easy.

10. Working in the film biz, you use a lot of MDF. Really and truly the best way to seal the edges, is just to let CA glue soak into it.

11. Really fantastic tips, James! Thanks a bunch! ????
    Stay safe there with your family! ????????

12. If you’re going to use mdf, hdf or mdo you should use confirmat screws. It is the only screw that was ever designed for use in these products.

13. Mdf is only good for patterns.

14. As always great video. I really do miss the beautiful background of tools, though.

15. All great tips. I tend to use spackle to fill edges and screw countersinks. but I will be sure to give joint compound a try.

16. I have been successful using oil based primer on all edges that will be exposed and painted. Lightly sand when dry and you can paint subsequent coats with water based paint.

17. I changed my mind on MDF when I saw what @HookedonWood did with black MDF in his shop.

18. No primer on MDF! Primer seals the MDF and doesn't allow proper impregnation. If something sticks to the paint, after a few years and some weight on it, it will chip off. And deep scratches will show the MDF again.

    Water based paint and let it thoroughly dry in between coats, with some light sanding.
    Start with 20% paint, 25%, 33%, 50%, 75% and 1-2 100% layers. You'll end up with the most durable end result that will handle anything.

19. I made a cross cut sled with MDF and it was ok at first but the edges of mdf tend to wear/absorb moisture. Not going to throw it away but I might try chamfering off those puffy edges and paint the whole thing to see if that makes it last better.

20. love the content. what is your opinion on mdf in situations such as stone coat countertops?

21. I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.

22. Particle board video next?

23. MDF certainly has its place in the building world. Like many, my biggest complaint is the weight.

    Another material I would like to see addressed is HDF or high density fiber board. I have only found it in thinner dimensions as it seems to be primarily for making peg board or used on the backs of cabinets, bookcases, etc. It appears to add some structural integrity without adding a lot of bulk or thickness to a project. But I would like to see any tips or other uses for HDF.

    Thanks for sharing all of your hard won knowledge.

24. Appreciate the comments about safety.

25. My first work bench top was made from MDF. Worked great and held up well with everything that sat on top of it as well as built into it.

26. Instead of using joint compound, paint all cut edges with sanding sealer. Let dry, then sand with 180 or 220. The cut edges will paint as smoothly as the flat surface.

27. I'm just one guy doing custom work for myself, so economies of scale can be ignored. When I have an MDF project I use plywood instead. That way when it gets ruined I can cut it up for another project. Also, it doesn't get ruined by someone not me leaving water on it.

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