Veneer Cutting Methods
Rotary Cut
Veneers are peeled from a log like paper coming off a roll. This method produces large pieces of veneer with flat, random grain patterns. This is generally the least expensive cutting method, but rotary veneers can have a bland appearance and may vary widely in pattern or color.
Ideal for:
- Projects where a low price point is more important than a consistent appearance
Plain Sliced
Veneers are cut along a log’s growth rings and typically present a cathedral grain pattern with veneer leaves that are 6 to 12 inches wide. Plain Slicing is the most common, as it produces the highest yield and is generally the least expensive slicing method.
Ideal for:
- Wall panels
- Doors
- Furniture
Quarter Sliced
Veneers are cut perpendicular to a log’s growth rings and generally produce a very straight grain. Veneer leaves are cut consecutively and are easy to match. In many species this method will reveal a decorative element in the wood, like flake patterns in white oak. Quarter slicing produces smaller veneer leaves and is more expensive.
Ideal for:
- Cabinetry
- Flooring
- High-end custom crafts and furniture
Rift Cut
Veneers are sliced at an angle of 15 degrees to the radius of the log. This method is most often used for oak. It is intended to produce a straight grain and minimize the oak’s ray flake effect. Rift slicing is the most expensive because it results in the most waste. It is easily sequenced and matched.
Ideal for:
- Fine furniture
- Projects that require a consistent, long, straight grain
Rotary Cut
Veneers are peeled from a log like paper coming off a roll. This method produces large pieces of veneer with flat, random grain patterns. This is generally the least expensive cutting method, but rotary veneers can have a bland appearance and may vary widely in pattern or color.
Ideal for:
- Projects where a low price point is more important than a consistent appearance
Plain Sliced
Veneers are cut along a log’s growth rings and typically present a cathedral grain pattern with veneer leaves that are 6 to 12 inches wide. Plain Slicing is the most common, as it produces the highest yield and is generally the least expensive slicing method.
Ideal for:
- Wall panels
- Doors
- Furniture
Quarter Sliced
Veneers are cut perpendicular to a log’s growth rings and generally produce a very straight grain. Veneer leaves are cut consecutively and are easy to match. In many species this method will reveal a decorative element in the wood, like flake patterns in white oak. Quarter slicing produces smaller veneer leaves and is more expensive.
Ideal for:
- Cabinetry
- Flooring
- High-end custom crafts and furniture
Rift Cut
Veneers are sliced at an angle of 15 degrees to the radius of the log. This method is most often used for oak. It is intended to produce a straight grain and minimize the oak’s ray flake effect. Rift slicing is the most expensive because it results in the most waste. It is easily sequenced and matched.
Ideal for:
- Fine furniture
- Projects that require a consistent, long, straight grain
