Trimming MDF

[davey76]

Hi Guys

I've made some MDF doors which I need to trim by about 2 or 3mm (I didn't allow quite enough for the gaps on the hinge sides - doh !)

Is planing an option ? (Manual plane) or would sanding do it

Thanks in advance

ps I know about the mask needed

 

[Brinston]

i would suggest an electric planer, if you haven't already hinged them you could get away with taking 4mm off just 2 sides, this should allow for the 2mm all round. Using a hand plane will do the trick but MDF will blunt your blade twice as fast.

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Planing is better than sanding - with sanding you are highly likely to dub over the edges, even with a sanding block

 

[davey76]

Thanks guys - I will try a plane - I just have memories of trying this before and just gouging chunks off with the plane

I don't have a electric plane so will try the manual one

Its only 2mm I need in total - and they're hinged already so I only have 2 edges to play with

Thanks for the advice

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Thanks guys - I will try a plane - I just have memories of trying this before and just gouging chunks off with the plane

I don't have a electric plane so will try the manual one

Make sure that your plane is nice and sharp and remember that MDF will dull it quickly. For tips on sharpening, search for "Scary Sharp" on the net - it really works. Good luck

 

[davey76]

Hmmm thanks guys - it went OK but I have ended up with a rounded edge as suggested above - might buy an electric plane (should have done that in the first place )

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Hmmm thanks guys - it went OK but I have ended up with a rounded edge as suggested above - might buy an electric plane (should have done that in the first place )

Or maybe a try square? I even use them with electric planers to check the squareness