MDF

[edward]

Has anyone use  !/4" MDF for a backer board, and painted. Does it hold glue well. was thinking of trying it.   edward

[oldhudson]

I use mdf for a couple of things in the shop (sacrificial fences, jigs, miter bar extensions), but never as a backer. Caution, I can't think of another material that will make more dust when cutting it. It's really just fine sawdust glued together. But it's pretty cheap, almost always flat, doesn't have any grain to worry about. It isn't as strong as wood. Cuts, glues and paints fine. You should prime it for painting especially on cut edges. 

[Denny Knappen]

I have never used it.  I prefer mat boards as they are free to me.

[Rob]

Hi Edward,

 

I used painted MDF as a backer for this plywood trivet.  

 

 

I glued it with ordinary wood glue and it is still fine some months later.  I wouldn't get it wet though.

 

Rob

[amazingkevin]

Has anyone use  !/4" MDF for a backer board, and painted. Does it hold glue well. was thinking of trying it.   edward

Well it's made mostly from glue so glue should stick to it readily,http://www.wood-data...s-and-toxicity/

[NC Scroller]

For a painted backer it should work BUT extreme care should be taken cutting it due to the excessive dust it creates.

[Lucky2]

I've used it often, it does a perfect job as a backer. It looks nicer than plywood when painted, because it's surface is so smooth. When I use MDF I use wood glue, it works great.

Len

[Jim Finn]

I use thicker MDF (3/4") making toys with my scroll saw.  It is dusty, but after cutting and routing it requires no sanding like fir or pine does.

[edward]

Thanks I was  thinking of buying some to try, like to us it on crosses and plaques, and use saw tooth hangers.   edward