What exactly is paper backed veneer? And can it be used for radio cabinets? And how does it affix? Paste? Glue? Force of habit? I have never seen this product but I have a chance to buy a great deal of it fairly inexpensively, so...advice please?

It's just wood veneer that has been factory-bonded to a paper backing material. The principal advantage that I can see in working with it is that the backing makes the veneer resistant to splitting along the grain during the application process; so it is easier to work with. It can be applied with a good grade of contact adhesive.

Well, that sounds like it will work for me. Thanks!

Word of caution using paper back veneer, if you intend to use lacquer base products such as sealers and clear coats for your finish you run a high risk the of the veneer lifting if contact cement is used, the lacquer will seep though and react to the contact cement. If you use yellow glue that wont happen, I don't use paper back because of that reason. I only use veneer with a real wood backing, then you can use lacquer when contact cement is being used to glue down veneer.

Glad you chimed in, Fred. Your opinion means a lot to everyone here. I always learn something from everything you post. Thanks!

Or better yet, never use contact cement.

Steve

Your right Steve, contact cement is not the 1st or best choice for gluing fine wood veneer to antique radios or furniture, is does work but may cause problems down the road. Wood glue such as yellow or white wood glue works great but is tricky and you need the right equipment and tools and the know how . Im getting away from spray on contact cement and turning towards iron on wood glue that's made for veneers. Steve Maybe you could take a few minutes on your method for gluing wood veneer, I've seen your work on the reproduction Philco cathedral cabinets you are making. ( Awsome). Thanks. Fred Taylor Dallas TX

This is some old paper backed veneer I bought at an estate sale years ago. I'm not necessarily recommending it, just showing you what it is. It does make the veneer flexible. I use it on very small chips.

Should be ok for small chips if it matches.