Glossary: MDF
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M.D.F. is a specially engineered product made from wood that has been finely ground, and mixed with a urea-resin bonding agent, then cured under extreme pressure and high heat. In fact, a 3/4" thick sheet of M.D.F. started out as a stiff slurry nearly 2 feet thick! The resulting material is very stable and strong, relatively stiff, machines well and resists damage. The faces of this sheet stock are very smooth and hard, making them especially well suited for taking painted finishes. We used to make a lot of antique reproduction pieces for artist Anne Ibur, who produced hand painted furniture. The result was a hand painted piece that was styled like a 100 year old antique, but would be certain to proudly display her artwork for another 100 years. Exterior grade M.D.F. is also far better suited for yard and garden ornaments than exterior, construction grade plywood. It stays looking good much longer and doesn't delaminate. It's biggest problem is that it is very heavy stuff. For more details on this topic, visit Wood Magazine's Sheet Goods Selector |