I was a laminate technician for years. My favorite material for keeping the laminate and the surface separate before contact was Venetian blind slats. Easy to stack and transport. Nice and low so you could line up the surfaces. Try it and you'll like it!
In my old shop we used to use metal pencil rods for the apprentices to support laminates when gluing up full 4'×8' sheets. After a lot of practice, we all learned how to lay full sheets without any "stickers".
I was shown that trick a coule of decades ago, after using other random sticks and paper. I still have the same set of Venetian blind slats that I found at the dump way back then. They have been used dozens of times over the years, without fail. Just make sure they are wiped clean of dust and junk before use.
When scoring the laminate, put the straight edge on the side you want to save and cut with the waste end exposed, that way no matter if you miss or not, you wont scratch the side you want to keep.
Great job showing the basics of laminate installation. There are many ways to do this, and lots of tips and tricks. I switched to using water based contact cement a long time ago. 3M makes one that is top notch. Very little odor, and very strong. I did my kitchen counters in 2007, and they still look good as new. I have done several workshop surfaces as well, with zero long term issues. I even did a bunch of small tops in a mobile coffee shop/school bus. All in bright yellow, and all of it survived heavy daily abuse. One more thing, I always use white or yellow for workshop surfaces (outfeed tables, extension wings, etc.). You can write notes on them while working, and easily wipe them off later. I use the scraps to make note pads that glue to the side of my tape measures, too.
good to know about the 3m stuff. i have laminate-like finish sheets to lay on a kitchen island to finish the sides. also, my cabinet toe kick covers are the same. i may look into this to adhere them vs. construction adhesive/pin nails
to me, this is the absolute model for what a woodcraft how-to should be. clear, simple, full context, sketch diagrams, fun presentation, outstanding outcome. tyvm
Jason, great and informative video. Scoring the laminate before you chamfer is unnecessary. Just hit it with a flush cut bit w/bearing, then the chamfer. Also you can totally run the router in a normal direction (against the rotation for better control) without worrying about any chip out. I worked in a laminate shop for almost 8 years and layed thousands of linear feet of laminate, never had an edge chip out with a flush cut or running against the rotation of the motor on a router. Also, LOVE your "Harbor Freight" table saw!
As a question for you: if I were going to make some channels in the top, say for t-track, would it be better to pre-cut those and fit the laminate in sections, or can you use a router to make the grooves in place after installing the top?
@@PFoxen i, an expert since i did this once, would say once glued, pretend its one with the wood its covering. I would not make panels but route right through. This stuff routes very nicely.
This is a pretty solid little workbench. While once you figure out how it comes together, it is physically Easy to assemble th-cam.com/users/postUgkxyFZUPFEey-PuqsPMxqaykBhgA1LWxFHh by yourself. But the diagrams explaining the steps are really pretty bad. I could not get the handle pins in all the way despite multiple attempts, so I just used a screw I had on hand for the 2nd handle. I could not get the first pin in further or pull it back out. You are supposed to hammer it in, but I had no leverage and the handle is plastic and I did not want to risk breaking it. I will get a lot of use out of the bench because of the convenient size and height. It does fold up nicely for storage. They even explain how to fold it so you don't get pinched...that is important!
I like how you trimmed out the top with the maple then installed the laminate. Usually I see people adding the hardwood trim at the end, but this way gives a nice smooth work surface and a more modern look. I like it!
Yes and since the laminate lays over the edge, there is no joint on top between the self-edge and the laminate top. Keeps out dust and spilled beverages, both hot and cold. ;-)
I appreciate this comment because I will be installing some laminate soon on a desk top and was leaning towards putting the trim on last. I will now rethink that idea.
Did you do TWO coats of contact cement? I never did that. Just one coat, both surfaces, let dry, and then stick them together. I never heard of doing TWO coats of contact cement on both surfaces before sticking them together.
As a 50 year + woodworker, who has had the cutting tool wander away from the straight edge occasionally. I started measuring to the far side of my straight edge. So that if an error occurs, the wandering cut is in the scrap and not in the protected finished piece. Nice pipes! Your voice and the clamps!
Brilliant! You are doing some of the most useful and entertaining content in the woodworking TH-cam community. I just broke ground on a new shop and I’ll be laminating like a mad man! Nice job!
My grandfather was a carpenter when Formica first came out and we still have alot of stuff with formica around the house. I love it especially with a wood finished edge!!!! Easy to clean resilient and looks nice
Thanks for sharing your knowledge! I enjoy watching your videos. I am in my late 50"s and used to work in construction throughout my 20s and 30s. For several months now I have been researching woodworking to pick up as a hobby. The skills that I have are transferable, but I have much more to learn. I am just now starting to purchase some of the tools that I would need. I am hoping that it will help to keep my mind sharp during my senior years. Woodworking is better than therapy!
Oh Man! Where were people like you as Woodshop teachers back in the 60's? The timing on this was perfect. Building a portable roller cabinet for my new Kamado Joe II. You've convinced me, "I can do this". Now have to revisit how you make those perfect drawers. But first,,,to the Bourbon decanter shelf.
I must say, in my opinion that was one of your better instructional videos. Your demeanor and delivery in this video seemed different, I liked it quite a lot! Job well done!
Excellent presentation skills and knowledge base. Other noticeable point is that the video is not rushed, as a woodworking enthusiast and a new one, I would love to see work done and explained in such detail as you do. Happy to spend extra time on video to learn rather than watching a time lapse only to stop at end of the make. Really wonderful work. Thank you for your time and for sharing your knowledge
Helpful and entertaining, as usual. A couple of additional points: Use the straight edge to protect your 'good' material - at 18:14 for example it is better to run the cutting tool on the waste side of the straight edge. Cut edges of laminate are sharp! Handle it with care. You can draw on the laminate with a medium pencil, for example for laying out items with non-standard angles. A pencil eraser works fine to remove the markings.
Great video Jason. I love laminate on my work surfaces. Router table, drill press table, outfeed table, assembly table, etc. all covered with laminate. I've had it crack by rolling too close to the edge, so what I do now is apply it as you did with sticks, but instead of using the roller as I go along, I use hand pressure to make sure it's adhered well, trim the overhang, then hit it with the roller. Seriously, laminate is amazing in the workshop.
Pro tip: when using a nailer, make sure the hand holding your workpiece is about 50% farther away from the nail gun's tip than the length of the nail, in ANY direction. Don't count on the nail going in the direction you aimed. You'll be very thankful when that inevitable day comes that the nail ricochets off of a hidden knot or other obstruction and shoots out sideways instead. Think it won't happen? You _may_ be right, but given enough time, the probability of all possibilities approaches one. Maybe this safety step is actually being followed in the video, but it's hard to tell. The "fingers away just before firing" technique shown on the very last shot is a good idea too, especially if you really feel the need to get a very close touch-fit.
Also, look at the stick of nails and the way the tips are tapered- they form a ridge that runs the length of the stick. If you hold the nailer parallel to the grain and the taper hits something that deflects it (like a hard growth ring in the wood), it will curve, usually up into your hand. BUT, if you hold the nailer perpendicular to the grain (and perpendicular to the top surface in this video) it will deflect sideways, which is just fine- maybe even holds a little better.
Happened to me once before when I was pinning the corner of a floating floor. Nail ricocheted off of a knot in the plywood underneath, funny thing is it jumped out a lot further than I thought it would. My thumb was at least 3 in away and I was using a 2-inch Brad nail. Yet somehow it went in and shot back out at an angle came out of the floor and straight through the tip of my thumb entering the bottom curling around the bone and coming out the top just behind my cuticle. Now yeah I'm a man so I just grabbed some pliers pulled it out duct taped it and went back to work. But it hurt like the bejesus pulling that thing out and it wasn't very pleasant the rest of the day.
"given enough time, the probability of all possibilities approaches one (aka certainty)" Damn, a practical statistician, right here on YuToob. It's nice when Bayes shows right on time.
Love the content bro! Gotta give you 2 out of 5 stars on laminate though. I'm a production carpenter and there's no time for the extra care and effort, and especially time, you put into the laminated tops. What you really want to do is cut the laminate an inch or more longer on all sides and forget the cheat sticks on a top that small. Grab it, bend it, stick your long edge and roll it on by hand. Also, a 1/4" flush trim bit, cheating your fence/deck of your router up off the surface a bit, will provide a cut you can file back. That is, to laminated banding. Even if you have a hardwood band that you use a chamfer or roundover or whatever bit, it needs filing or back bevel sanding. Hope I can help you in return. I've learned a thing or two watching your vids. Thanks bro.
I used latex contact cement ...easy clean up...dries faster with a longer working time...and best of all no harmful noxious fumes...no need for filter mask and it's great in confined spaces....also...there is a laminate trimming bit made specifically for trimming flush
One of the chillest presentations with a notably dense collection of insightful suggestions (e.g. 6:30 screw from below so you can replace the top easily in the future). Subscribed -> Commented -> thumb.
I built a massive movie theater style projector screen with this stuff at my last house. It was pretty awesome. Great material for that purpose. Much better looking than the silver screen paint.
I installed crimson colored Formica to the iron top of my powermatic table saw some twenty years ago! I was tired of spraying the top with Boeshield to prevent the rust from a non heated shop! The auxiliary tops for the routers also matched with the same Formica! The surface to this day is still nice and easy to clean and no more rust concerns!
My Dad built a beautiful laminate, built-in desk but I was at college so never got to see how he did it. This filled in a 40-year gap for me. Thanks, "Dad"!
Thank's a lot for the lesson and your tips! With you i learn english, take a good moment and dream about oak, Festool and woodworking .... 😅 Thank you Mister ! Christine from France 🇫🇷
I just went through this process with a 9' x 2 1/2' desktop. Turned out nice. I did all my cutting with a router , I liked your approach because boy when I did it with the router I was nervous of tear-out or something the whole time. No problems tho, but next time I'll score it and break as close as I can
@UnjustifiedRecs I'm assuming you get pretty close with your initial cut? Do you also go backwards? I found that tip interesting, and was wondering how much it mattered.
After trying to use black melamine to build a miter saw station, and dealing with its shortcomings (and my own shortcomings too), I will glue on the Formica on top of the melamine in my favorite color and enjoy its durability. You opened up a whole bucket of possibilities to me. Thanks!
Went through the whole Harbor Freight Website. I couldn't for the life of me find that snazzy black table saw that you are showcasing! I guess they aren't selling that saw any longer
Great advice about not screwing down then applying laminate. I've screwed myself before doing a similar thing and it's definitely a lesson better learned from someone else!
Love the detailed how-to format. I feel like you don't see many like this anymore since they probably don't play as nice with the algorithm. Thanks for the guidance, Jason! I feel smarter.
When I see a good how-to video, I always try to leave a few comments, even if they are lame, and after watching, I hit the replay button and let it play again while I go walk the dog. we gotta do all we can to boost the numbers for creators who actually inform us.
I use the old blades of venison blinds. You can push them down on either side before pulling them out it helps making sure the edges are correct.. I like your start in the middle though.. We always used a palm trim blade to trim our laminate.. it worked well no chips or blow outs.. I built check out stands and other type furniture for a few big box stores back in the day.. Nice money but the smell of the weldwood always gave me a terrific head ache.. So I only did two big jobs.. then back to "normal" work.. One last thing laminate is sharp you can cut the crap outta yourself if not careful.. Thanks brother this was fun!
Laminate edges can be very sharp. My old neighbor was a laminate (and router) pro. It was a pleasure watching him work and occasionally assist when he had a big old thick piece of counter top to move.
I am very happy to have clicked on your video! For us non English native language speakers, your pronunciation and tone is just perfect to understand it all! And I want to thank you so much for the several VERY HELPFUL tips: putting not only one coat of contact cement, but at least two coats... then the scoring tutorial, and finally the good advice about starting to bond at the middle and going from center towards the sides. Just perfect. Suscribed and Liked! I have only one question for you: Can you show us how to bend Laminate to cover curved surfaces?
Love the way you bring your stuff, education and some crazy actions envoled, learned some, knew some. You bring it the right way thnx Johan from Belgium
Great tutorial Jason. Just covered my workbench. First time working with a laminate. Now I have a cool looking workbench like most woodworkers on YT. 😆
Had a job come up that requires laminate and contact cement and I immediately thought about you doing this video. So I went back and watched before I got started! Thanks for the content man!
This was a very informative and entertaining video. Your relaxed manner was refreshing and I thoroughly enjoyed watching. One thing I especially liked was your use of the most accurate measuring devices we have....our fingers. I watched as you felt the fit of the miters and the elevation of your maple edge. Woodworking is truly a "hands on" craft. If you ever run across and old metal venetian blind, save the strips. They work great for your "stickers" with their gentle hump shape.
Connect in the middle first...such a simple, great solution to long pieces getting out of alignment, like happened to me my one and only time installing formica..
Dang nice harbor freight table saw!! 🤣 I used to do relamination or bank teller lines. WAYYY to much laminate. But it is a great product. TH-cam has been lacking in how-to videos for laminate. This is a great one!
I think the most important part about surfacing something with laminate is to read and follow the instructions on the container of your contact cement and follow the instructions to the letter. Instead of cutting up a bunch of strips of wood for a standoff layer, I bought a cheap window blind, cut the strings and used the slats as a standoff. They worked well.
I have one more table to build for my wife’s work. She works at a preschool. They are bench style tables for kids with laminate tops, bench seat tops and side laminate. I’m on my last one like I said and I have one side I need to do but the piece I have doesn’t quite cover it. I have scrap pieces that I could splice together but I don’t know the best way to do it. Can you give me any tips?! This video would have made my life way easier on the first 4 tables I have already made! Your awesome man and I can’t wait for your videos! Oregon rocks!
Use a straight edge and a trim router, router off only a 1/16" on each side of the seam and it will fuck together like a glove. It's how laminate shops do it, I'd know I worked in them for over 15 years lol.
Great job! I don't think I remember ever applying two coats, let alone, three coats of cc. And not sure if I ever worried about the bubbles. But I guess taking a little extra time and effort does add more quality to your job. Always commit to quality. Or as I say to those I train at work, "Quality over quantity" (then later yell, "whats taking you so long?")
I used to make AT&T Phone Center Stores. We sprayed one coat on each 4X8 sheet of plywood. I don't remember having any problems. But, I agree - always commit to quality. Everyone does things slightly different. I also never snapped the laminate. I always cut it oversize and trimmed it with a laminate trimmer. Then I'd use a fine file to fine tune it. I love these videos.
I'm not a woodworker (yet) but love this channel. The time you took to explain the mitre placement was brilliant. Seconds before you said how to do it I was thinking "How do you make sure it all fits flush?". Loads of really useful information and tips passed on, thank you!
I've done a lot of laminate for myself and friends and got pretty good at it. Of course, when you shortcut the process, something will go wrong. I inadvertently touched a very large piece of laminate to a countertop and it got slightly tweaked just enough so it wasn't completely covered. The heat gun works to release the glue, but this works much better and quicker. Go down to the local Autozone and buy brake cleaner. Pick up a corner, spray it under the laminate and it will peel off quicker than a banana peel. An extra advantage is that it dissolves the glue so that it easily comes off. Recoat your pieces and voila, all fixed.
You forgot to mention how crazy sharp laminate is. I was scrolling through TH-cam and saw your post and I was like "Oh Jason is on! Missed his sorry butt !" Seriously man, I can binge watch your videos. Long time ago a land far far away I used to restore antique radios with hubby. I did both, electrical and the wood working part. Those days the was no TH-cam only internet. I wish I could have watched these kind of videos back then..... I still miss my table saw and my tools.
I think "Mr. Bourbon Moth" needs to build a bourbon bar for the shop..or house, where ever the misses prefers you drink....with all the cabinets you've been doing, it will fit right in..come on, build a bar!
Good work on the video. Have completed several laminate counters with my dad and he aways insisted on using dowels. And love that table saw from Harbor Freight, that's one of their nice ones.
Well, dang! Now you have me convinced. I wasn't 100% sure about how I was going to finish my table saw wings but I am now. I might cover everything in my shop in laminate - the miter saw station, my wife, the planer cart, the drill press table. Thank you for making it look so easy ..... and for the helpful tips of course. Excellent video.
I have found that its much easier to cut laminate with the table saw its fast, I don't roll glue I use a spray contact, it dries quick and usually you need one coat on the laminate and 2 on the substrate. Not sure why you scored the overhang I have always just used a flush trim bit never had laminate tear out. But there are so many ways to do anything and it will All end up with the same result
That was great info and fun to watch. The only thing I would add is that when freshly cut, or scored, laminate is the sharpest thing in the shop... I love the laminate top on my workbench, it has held up for years now, but I got the first of several cuts just unrolling the stuff from the store...
Great video! I appreciate all the links too. I was surprised how much the laminate costs. Costs less for me to buy countertops that have already been laminated. I will still use this method for more custom jobs in the future 🤙
Adding the chamfer also helps you from getting a cut on the edge. A friend was standing on a workbench like that without a chamfer and hopped down and knocked his knee on the edge. He ended up with a few stitches and left a bloody trail from the bench, to his truck, then from his truck to the ER. It was bloody footprints in the ER and a small pool in his truck.
Awesome book that gives you step-by-step photos th-cam.com/users/postUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt and directions to make every day project. I can see myself making a few of these projects and giving them as housewarming and holiday gifts!
"Harbor Freight" (with green label) table saw... hahahaha.... I always love to watch your videos. Very educational and entertaining at the same time. Thanks for sharing your creativity and more power to your channel!
Very informative. Especially liked the way to remove laminate as wasn't aware you could remove anything after using contact cement. Learned something useful. Thank you.
Speaking of clamps! I think you have invested in your clamps then I do my car! Oh to be you! Love your videos, this one seemed more instructional than many others. Great stuff!
I was a laminate technician for years. My favorite material for keeping the laminate and the surface separate before contact was Venetian blind slats. Easy to stack and transport. Nice and low so you could line up the surfaces. Try it and you'll like it!
Oh, I’ll have to give that a try at work.
My boss 30 years ago used them also but I love 1/2 poplar dowels
In my old shop we used to use metal pencil rods for the apprentices to support laminates when gluing up full 4'×8' sheets. After a lot of practice, we all learned how to lay full sheets without any "stickers".
Nice! I always used dowels, but have used regular trim pieces, even those cheap plastic trim pieces like quarter round works too.
I was shown that trick a coule of decades ago, after using other random sticks and paper. I still have the same set of Venetian blind slats that I found at the dump way back then. They have been used dozens of times over the years, without fail. Just make sure they are wiped clean of dust and junk before use.
When scoring the laminate, put the straight edge on the side you want to save and cut with the waste end exposed, that way no matter if you miss or not, you wont scratch the side you want to keep.
Yeah, good rule of thumb for pretty much all scoring, cutting, and even marking (especially with a marking knife).
I was thinking the same thing
Also I like to clamp my straight edge. Nothing worse when scoring and the straight edge suddenly moves.
@@JayDee-xj9lu In his case, he's using a saw guide. Those things hold pretty well. Good advice either way though.
If anyone else attempted these intros it would kill me! But with you my friend, it never gets old.
Great job showing the basics of laminate installation. There are many ways to do this, and lots of tips and tricks.
I switched to using water based contact cement a long time ago. 3M makes one that is top notch. Very little odor, and very strong. I did my kitchen counters in 2007, and they still look good as new. I have done several workshop surfaces as well, with zero long term issues. I even did a bunch of small tops in a mobile coffee shop/school bus. All in bright yellow, and all of it survived heavy daily abuse.
One more thing, I always use white or yellow for workshop surfaces (outfeed tables, extension wings, etc.). You can write notes on them while working, and easily wipe them off later. I use the scraps to make note pads that glue to the side of my tape measures, too.
good to know about the 3m stuff. i have laminate-like finish sheets to lay on a kitchen island to finish the sides. also, my cabinet toe kick covers are the same. i may look into this to adhere them vs. construction adhesive/pin nails
to me, this is the absolute model for what a woodcraft how-to should be. clear, simple, full context, sketch diagrams, fun presentation, outstanding outcome. tyvm
Jason, great and informative video. Scoring the laminate before you chamfer is unnecessary. Just hit it with a flush cut bit w/bearing, then the chamfer. Also you can totally run the router in a normal direction (against the rotation for better control) without worrying about any chip out. I worked in a laminate shop for almost 8 years and layed thousands of linear feet of laminate, never had an edge chip out with a flush cut or running against the rotation of the motor on a router. Also, LOVE your "Harbor Freight" table saw!
As a question for you: if I were going to make some channels in the top, say for t-track, would it be better to pre-cut those and fit the laminate in sections, or can you use a router to make the grooves in place after installing the top?
I concur. i performed many sins with no chip out.
@@PFoxen i, an expert since i did this once, would say once glued, pretend its one with the wood its covering. I would not make panels but route right through. This stuff routes very nicely.
I was thinking of using this for my workbench but wondered how it would go with drilling all the dog holes?
I ended up using the Ujk parf jig, it was really easy and there was no chip out on any of the wholes.
This is a pretty solid little workbench. While once you figure out how it comes together, it is physically Easy to assemble th-cam.com/users/postUgkxyFZUPFEey-PuqsPMxqaykBhgA1LWxFHh by yourself. But the diagrams explaining the steps are really pretty bad. I could not get the handle pins in all the way despite multiple attempts, so I just used a screw I had on hand for the 2nd handle. I could not get the first pin in further or pull it back out. You are supposed to hammer it in, but I had no leverage and the handle is plastic and I did not want to risk breaking it. I will get a lot of use out of the bench because of the convenient size and height. It does fold up nicely for storage. They even explain how to fold it so you don't get pinched...that is important!
I like how you trimmed out the top with the maple then installed the laminate. Usually I see people adding the hardwood trim at the end, but this way gives a nice smooth work surface and a more modern look. I like it!
Yes and since the laminate lays over the edge, there is no joint on top between the self-edge and the laminate top. Keeps out dust and spilled beverages, both hot and cold. ;-)
I appreciate this comment because I will be installing some laminate soon on a desk top and was leaning towards putting the trim on last. I will now rethink that idea.
This was fantastic! I just made a shop drawer base and used laminate surface. It went over without a hitch thanks to you and this video!
I was a laminate Jedi master for 49 years before getting my doctorate in laminate scoring and I have a pro tip. Keep doing what you’re doing
we bow before you, Master.
Did you do TWO coats of contact cement? I never did that. Just one coat, both surfaces, let dry, and then stick them together. I never heard of doing TWO coats of contact cement on both surfaces before sticking them together.
Thanks!
Watching those mitered corners perfectly come together is IMMENSELY satisfying
I followed your instructions and did a good job first time. My wife actually commented favourably and I am now not completely useless.
As a 50 year + woodworker, who has had the cutting tool wander away from the straight edge occasionally. I started measuring to the far side of my straight edge. So that if an error occurs, the wandering cut is in the scrap and not in the protected finished piece. Nice pipes! Your voice and the clamps!
This video is really giving laminate a better reputation. Great info Jason. Enjoyed this one!👍👊
Brilliant! You are doing some of the most useful and entertaining content in the woodworking TH-cam community. I just broke ground on a new shop and I’ll be laminating like a mad man! Nice job!
My grandfather was a carpenter when Formica first came out and we still have alot of stuff with formica around the house. I love it especially with a wood finished edge!!!! Easy to clean resilient and looks nice
Thanks for sharing your knowledge! I enjoy watching your videos. I am in my late 50"s and used to work in construction throughout my 20s and 30s. For several months now I have been researching woodworking to pick up as a hobby. The skills that I have are transferable, but I have much more to learn. I am just now starting to purchase some of the tools that I would need. I am hoping that it will help to keep my mind sharp during my senior years. Woodworking is better than therapy!
Oh Man! Where were people like you as Woodshop teachers back in the 60's? The timing on this was perfect. Building a portable roller cabinet for my new Kamado Joe II. You've convinced me, "I can do this". Now have to revisit how you make those perfect drawers. But first,,,to the Bourbon decanter shelf.
I must say, in my opinion that was one of your better instructional videos. Your demeanor and delivery in this video seemed different, I liked it quite a lot! Job well done!
Excellent presentation skills and knowledge base. Other noticeable point is that the video is not rushed, as a woodworking enthusiast and a new one, I would love to see work done and explained in such detail as you do. Happy to spend extra time on video to learn rather than watching a time lapse only to stop at end of the make. Really wonderful work. Thank you for your time and for sharing your knowledge
Helpful and entertaining, as usual.
A couple of additional points:
Use the straight edge to protect your 'good' material - at 18:14 for example it is better to run the cutting tool on the waste side of the straight edge.
Cut edges of laminate are sharp! Handle it with care.
You can draw on the laminate with a medium pencil, for example for laying out items with non-standard angles. A pencil eraser works fine to remove the markings.
Great video Jason. I love laminate on my work surfaces. Router table, drill press table, outfeed table, assembly table, etc. all covered with laminate.
I've had it crack by rolling too close to the edge, so what I do now is apply it as you did with sticks, but instead of using the roller as I go along, I use hand pressure to make sure it's adhered well, trim the overhang, then hit it with the roller.
Seriously, laminate is amazing in the workshop.
Pro tip: when using a nailer, make sure the hand holding your workpiece is about 50% farther away from the nail gun's tip than the length of the nail, in ANY direction. Don't count on the nail going in the direction you aimed. You'll be very thankful when that inevitable day comes that the nail ricochets off of a hidden knot or other obstruction and shoots out sideways instead. Think it won't happen? You _may_ be right, but given enough time, the probability of all possibilities approaches one. Maybe this safety step is actually being followed in the video, but it's hard to tell.
The "fingers away just before firing" technique shown on the very last shot is a good idea too, especially if you really feel the need to get a very close touch-fit.
Also, look at the stick of nails and the way the tips are tapered- they form a ridge that runs the length of the stick. If you hold the nailer parallel to the grain and the taper hits something that deflects it (like a hard growth ring in the wood), it will curve, usually up into your hand. BUT, if you hold the nailer perpendicular to the grain (and perpendicular to the top surface in this video) it will deflect sideways, which is just fine- maybe even holds a little better.
Happened to me once before when I was pinning the corner of a floating floor. Nail ricocheted off of a knot in the plywood underneath, funny thing is it jumped out a lot further than I thought it would. My thumb was at least 3 in away and I was using a 2-inch Brad nail. Yet somehow it went in and shot back out at an angle came out of the floor and straight through the tip of my thumb entering the bottom curling around the bone and coming out the top just behind my cuticle. Now yeah I'm a man so I just grabbed some pliers pulled it out duct taped it and went back to work. But it hurt like the bejesus pulling that thing out and it wasn't very pleasant the rest of the day.
"given enough time, the probability of all possibilities approaches one (aka certainty)" Damn, a practical statistician, right here on YuToob. It's nice when Bayes shows right on time.
Love the content bro! Gotta give you 2 out of 5 stars on laminate though. I'm a production carpenter and there's no time for the extra care and effort, and especially time, you put into the laminated tops. What you really want to do is cut the laminate an inch or more longer on all sides and forget the cheat sticks on a top that small. Grab it, bend it, stick your long edge and roll it on by hand. Also, a 1/4" flush trim bit, cheating your fence/deck of your router up off the surface a bit, will provide a cut you can file back. That is, to laminated banding. Even if you have a hardwood band that you use a chamfer or roundover or whatever bit, it needs filing or back bevel sanding. Hope I can help you in return. I've learned a thing or two watching your vids. Thanks bro.
I used latex contact cement
...easy clean up...dries faster with a longer working time...and best of all no harmful noxious fumes...no need for filter mask and it's great in confined spaces....also...there is a laminate trimming bit made specifically for trimming flush
Interesting! Happen to have a link to that product?
Thanks so much. I'm working on my first laminate top! Thanks to you, things are going great. Just waiting for that contact cement to dry. :)
One of the chillest presentations with a notably dense collection of insightful suggestions (e.g. 6:30 screw from below so you can replace the top easily in the future). Subscribed -> Commented -> thumb.
I love the new gear! I had to Stop when I Saw your new table saw! Harbor Freight's been stepping up their game, it seems.
I built a massive movie theater style projector screen with this stuff at my last house. It was pretty awesome. Great material for that purpose. Much better looking than the silver screen paint.
At work we use 3M Fastbond contact, less VOC’s than standard contact. Works good to fix your boots too.
I installed crimson colored Formica to the iron top of my powermatic table saw some twenty years ago! I was tired of spraying the top with Boeshield to prevent the rust from a non heated shop! The auxiliary tops for the routers also matched with the same Formica! The surface to this day is still nice and easy to clean and no more rust concerns!
Just made a version of your off-feed table with laminate top. Thanks for the inspiration and detailed directions. Lowered my stress level.
My Dad built a beautiful laminate, built-in desk but I was at college so never got to see how he did it. This filled in a 40-year gap for me. Thanks, "Dad"!
Thank's a lot for the lesson and your tips! With you i learn english, take a good moment and dream about oak, Festool and woodworking .... 😅
Thank you Mister ! Christine from France 🇫🇷
I just went through this process with a 9' x 2 1/2' desktop. Turned out nice. I did all my cutting with a router , I liked your approach because boy when I did it with the router I was nervous of tear-out or something the whole time. No problems tho, but next time I'll score it and break as close as I can
@UnjustifiedRecs I'm assuming you get pretty close with your initial cut? Do you also go backwards? I found that tip interesting, and was wondering how much it mattered.
After trying to use black melamine to build a miter saw station, and dealing with its shortcomings (and my own shortcomings too), I will glue on the Formica on top of the melamine in my favorite color and enjoy its durability.
You opened up a whole bucket of possibilities to me.
Thanks!
Went through the whole Harbor Freight Website. I couldn't for the life of me find that snazzy black table saw that you are showcasing! I guess they aren't selling that saw any longer
Great advice about not screwing down then applying laminate. I've screwed myself before doing a similar thing and it's definitely a lesson better learned from someone else!
WOW, a great "monster" worksurface now, the laminate process is spot on, love the cabinet work..
Love the detailed how-to format. I feel like you don't see many like this anymore since they probably don't play as nice with the algorithm. Thanks for the guidance, Jason! I feel smarter.
When I see a good how-to video, I always try to leave a few comments, even if they are lame, and after watching, I hit the replay button and let it play again while I go walk the dog. we gotta do all we can to boost the numbers for creators who actually inform us.
I use the old blades of venison blinds. You can push them down on either side before pulling them out it helps making sure the edges are correct.. I like your start in the middle though.. We always used a palm trim blade to trim our laminate.. it worked well no chips or blow outs.. I built check out stands and other type furniture for a few big box stores back in the day.. Nice money but the smell of the weldwood always gave me a terrific head ache.. So I only did two big jobs.. then back to "normal" work.. One last thing laminate is sharp you can cut the crap outta yourself if not careful.. Thanks brother this was fun!
Laminate edges can be very sharp. My old neighbor was a laminate (and router) pro. It was a pleasure watching him work and occasionally assist when he had a big old thick piece of counter top to move.
Easily one of the best channels on TH-cam. Entertaining and informative at the same time. Thanks bro!
This is likely the best of your videos that I have watched, and I've watched a bunch. Thanks.
Hey man! Awesome work again! Nice changes in the presentation! It's always better watching and talking on the camera than the voice over ;-) Loved it!
Jason, you make life better. Thank you.
I am very happy to have clicked on your video! For us non English native language speakers, your pronunciation and tone is just perfect to understand it all! And I want to thank you so much for the several VERY HELPFUL tips: putting not only one coat of contact cement, but at least two coats... then the scoring tutorial, and finally the good advice about starting to bond at the middle and going from center towards the sides. Just perfect. Suscribed and Liked!
I have only one question for you: Can you show us how to bend Laminate to cover curved surfaces?
Love the way you bring your stuff, education and some crazy actions
envoled, learned some, knew some. You bring it the right way thnx
Johan from Belgium
Great tutorial Jason. Just covered my workbench. First time working with a laminate. Now I have a cool looking workbench like most woodworkers on YT. 😆
Had a job come up that requires laminate and contact cement and I immediately thought about you doing this video. So I went back and watched before I got started! Thanks for the content man!
This was a very informative and entertaining video. Your relaxed manner was refreshing and I thoroughly enjoyed watching. One thing I especially liked was your use of the most accurate measuring devices we have....our fingers. I watched as you felt the fit of the miters and the elevation of your maple edge. Woodworking is truly a "hands on" craft. If you ever run across and old metal venetian blind, save the strips. They work great for your "stickers" with their gentle hump shape.
Very informative, and your personalized segments of you watching Skillshare videos on your sponsor spot was hilarious. Thank you. 🤣
Connect in the middle first...such a simple, great solution to long pieces getting out of alignment, like happened to me my one and only time installing formica..
Dang nice harbor freight table saw!! 🤣 I used to do relamination or bank teller lines. WAYYY to much laminate. But it is a great product. TH-cam has been lacking in how-to videos for laminate. This is a great one!
I think the most important part about surfacing something with laminate is to read and follow the instructions on the container of your contact cement and follow the instructions to the letter.
Instead of cutting up a bunch of strips of wood for a standoff layer, I bought a cheap window blind, cut the strings and used the slats as a standoff. They worked well.
I have one more table to build for my wife’s work. She works at a preschool. They are bench style tables for kids with laminate tops, bench seat tops and side laminate. I’m on my last one like I said and I have one side I need to do but the piece I have doesn’t quite cover it. I have scrap pieces that I could splice together but I don’t know the best way to do it. Can you give me any tips?! This video would have made my life way easier on the first 4 tables I have already made! Your awesome man and I can’t wait for your videos! Oregon rocks!
Use a straight edge and a trim router, router off only a 1/16" on each side of the seam and it will fuck together like a glove. It's how laminate shops do it, I'd know I worked in them for over 15 years lol.
Love your Harbour Freight Table saw. 😉 Nice table saws Station. 🇨🇦
Yes wonder where he got such a nice saw at harbor freight? 🤔
Jason, your the master of "Pro Tips". Great video buddy, I enjoy each and everyone of them.
Great job! I don't think I remember ever applying two coats, let alone, three coats of cc. And not sure if I ever worried about the bubbles. But I guess taking a little extra time and effort does add more quality to your job. Always commit to quality. Or as I say to those I train at work, "Quality over quantity" (then later yell, "whats taking you so long?")
I used to make AT&T Phone Center Stores. We sprayed one coat on each 4X8 sheet of plywood. I don't remember having any problems. But, I agree - always commit to quality. Everyone does things slightly different. I also never snapped the laminate. I always cut it oversize and trimmed it with a laminate trimmer. Then I'd use a fine file to fine tune it.
I love these videos.
cheap cup GUN is the best option. use Less glue and eliminate multiple coats.
I'm not a woodworker (yet) but love this channel. The time you took to explain the mitre placement was brilliant. Seconds before you said how to do it I was thinking "How do you make sure it all fits flush?". Loads of really useful information and tips passed on, thank you!
I've done a lot of laminate for myself and friends and got pretty good at it. Of course, when you shortcut the process, something will go wrong. I inadvertently touched a very large piece of laminate to a countertop and it got slightly tweaked just enough so it wasn't completely covered. The heat gun works to release the glue, but this works much better and quicker. Go down to the local Autozone and buy brake cleaner. Pick up a corner, spray it under the laminate and it will peel off quicker than a banana peel. An extra advantage is that it dissolves the glue so that it easily comes off. Recoat your pieces and voila, all fixed.
Laquer thinner works too
You forgot to mention how crazy sharp laminate is. I was scrolling through TH-cam and saw your post and I was like "Oh Jason is on! Missed his sorry butt !" Seriously man, I can binge watch your videos. Long time ago a land far far away I used to restore antique radios with hubby. I did both, electrical and the wood working part. Those days the was no TH-cam only internet. I wish I could have watched these kind of videos back then..... I still miss my table saw and my tools.
I think "Mr. Bourbon Moth" needs to build a bourbon bar for the shop..or house, where ever the misses prefers you drink....with all the cabinets you've been doing, it will fit right in..come on, build a bar!
I definitely concur. We want to see a bar built.
BAAAAAAAAAAAARR!!! 😂
Shuffle Board table needs a friend.
🤚 put my name down for the bar build vote
I agree with Torrence Carpentry. That way he could do more videos on some fantastic bourbons for us to indulge ourselves in.
the "binging with babish" of woodworking. love your stuff
This video was so much better with out the normal voice over that you do…. Keep them live buddy
I have been woodworking for a while but I always learn something new here. Thanks for explaining everything so well!
A really fitting sponsor to this nice and educational video of yours. Thanks for the insights
Love the “Harbor Freight” saw there. Stop. Awesome job on the hand written green tap for the saw. Stop.
Good work on the video. Have completed several laminate counters with my dad and he aways insisted on using dowels. And love that table saw from Harbor Freight, that's one of their nice ones.
What a great video. I learned a lot and had any fear of doing it decreased immensely. Thanks a lot. Cindy
Keep up the good work i enjoy watching your projects and learning at the same time super informative so thank yoy for that from the UK
Well, dang! Now you have me convinced. I wasn't 100% sure about how I was going to finish my table saw wings but I am now. I might cover everything in my shop in laminate - the miter saw station, my wife, the planer cart, the drill press table. Thank you for making it look so easy ..... and for the helpful tips of course. Excellent video.
That there is an absolute unit of a table saw system especially with that big ol’ harbor freight saw😂
I noticed that too. Didn’t know HarborFreight made quality table saws. 😆
That’s a Grizzly 1023 not a harbor freight
Harbor Freight certainly did not sell that saw!
Of course it's Harbor Freight, didn't you see the label?
@@ewetuber186000 The other saw Jim, the one with the big green and black Harbor Freight label under the blade height adjustment wheel.
I have found that its much easier to cut laminate with the table saw its fast, I don't roll glue I use a spray contact, it dries quick and usually you need one coat on the laminate and 2 on the substrate. Not sure why you scored the overhang I have always just used a flush trim bit never had laminate tear out. But there are so many ways to do anything and it will All end up with the same result
That was great info and fun to watch. The only thing I would add is that when freshly cut, or scored, laminate is the sharpest thing in the shop... I love the laminate top on my workbench, it has held up for years now, but I got the first of several cuts just unrolling the stuff from the store...
Nice work Jason, I really like the island work area you made. Have a great day.
Good instruction. Love the Harbor Freight label over the Saw Stop logo on the saw. Hilarious!
This is the first time I watch this channel and I love it.
Very thorough, informative and direct.
Just did one of my tables and turned out great. Was always nervous about it but your video killed it
That was very informative, thanks. All the little details about the potential hiccups were great.
Great lesson taught to us! You did a great job of taking the "mystique" out of laminate installation! The helpful tips were useful too! Thank you
Great video! I appreciate all the links too. I was surprised how much the laminate costs. Costs less for me to buy countertops that have already been laminated. I will still use this method for more custom jobs in the future 🤙
Adding the chamfer also helps you from getting a cut on the edge. A friend was standing on a workbench like that without a chamfer and hopped down and knocked his knee on the edge. He ended up with a few stitches and left a bloody trail from the bench, to his truck, then from his truck to the ER. It was bloody footprints in the ER and a small pool in his truck.
Working on my new combo Miter bench/Outfeed table this weekend, gonna use this
Appreciate your work!
This is the best video I have seen you do. Jason this was great and very helpful, plus you actually had safety gear on while doing it.
I have done some laminating. You included a couple little tricks that I didn't know. Thanks
30:18 I love your "Harbour Freight" table saw!
Awesome book that gives you step-by-step photos th-cam.com/users/postUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt and directions to make every day project. I can see myself making a few of these projects and giving them as housewarming and holiday gifts!
the green flannel is amazing! well done Sir!
"Harbor Freight" (with green label) table saw... hahahaha....
I always love to watch your videos. Very educational and entertaining at the same time. Thanks for sharing your creativity and more power to your channel!
Very informative. Especially liked the way to remove laminate as wasn't aware you could remove anything after using contact cement. Learned something useful. Thank you.
Simply the BEST entry to date. The slide and prat fall was AWESOME. Oh and the table was cool too. 😉😂
Dude, that harbor freight saw is really nice! I love it, keep up the good work.
@20:45, I didn't know you were fluent in Russian. Neat!
Speaking of clamps! I think you have invested in your clamps then I do my car! Oh to be you!
Love your videos, this one seemed more instructional than many others. Great stuff!
Excellent tutorial! Thanks. I liked the "working from the middle" tip 👍
You are absolutely hilarious to watch and very knowledgeable. I love watching your videos.
That’s perfect timing. I’m laying laminate for the first time at Monday. Thank you!
I think this was one of your best videos. Nicely done very informative