'Furry' MDF?!

[Presh]

Apologies for a no-doubt crap question. Have cut and routed flutes in MDF for the first time and the routed surfaces have a 'furry' texture. Is this the norm for machined MDF? Do I have inferior quality MDF and/or router bits. The bits are new but not expensive. Is it a case of fine sanding between each and every coat of paint in order to get a reasonably smooth finish. Thanks again.

 

[kinsella]

It could be a few things. If the router bits are new its likely you are trying to take too much off too quickly. Try do it in a few passes and you should near the sound of the motor, if it slowing down that will give you an indication.

 

[Peter Sefton]

There are different qualities of MDF on the market, Medite being one of the best. Cheaper ones can be furry.

In the past I have sealed the moulded edges of MDF with Cellulose Sanding Sealer which stiffens and holds the fibres. Two or three coats cut back with fine paper does the trick prior to painting.

Cheers Peter

 

[Myfordman]

Try MRMDF for your next project. It should be a lot better as well as taking paint much better

 

[Presh]

Thanks guys. This 'community' is just cracking. I'm at the bottom of a very steep learning curve but with your help and advice I will get there. Thanks again.

 

[MrYorke]

As above, use MR MDF next time. More expensive than standard MDF but will give a better finish.

If you're going to be doing lots of projects in MR MDF, buy some Zinnser Bin. It's a fantastic edge sealer for MDF. Expensive, but excellent. If you have a Johnsons Decorating Centre near you, they do their own brand. Just don't get the water based version

 

[RobinBHM]

Mr mdf is generally much better than plain mdf.

Plain mdf from a local timber or builders merchant is likely to be a contract grade budget option, if you want to use plain mdf it's best bought from a panel specialist and order medite premier or equivalent.

If you have furry edges, really sand them well down to 360 grit. It helps burnish the edge and limits the amount the edge furrs up after coating.

 

[Terry - Somerset]

I bought some plain MDF from bee and cue. The faces were solid. The centre was just like fibreboard matting. In future I will spend a little more!!

Terry

 

[Baldhead]

I bought some plain MDF from bee and cue. The faces were solid. The centre was just like fibreboard matting. In future I will spend a little more!!

Terry

I bet that's where Presh bought it. B and pooh's stuff is rubbish, the only reason I ever used them for MDF was because they cut it to size.

Baldhead

 

[Presh]

I bought some plain MDF from bee and cue. The faces were solid. The centre was just like fibreboard matting. In future I will spend a little more!!

Terry

I bet that's where Presh bought it. B and pooh's stuff is rubbish, the only reason I ever used them for MDF was because they cut it to size.

Baldhead

Not there but another major DIY retailer. Similarly the edges looked solid even when cut on the table saw it's the routed finish that I'm not happy with. But hey, you live and learn and as long as I'm learning then I'm happy!