Veneer Cuts
-

Different cuts produce different effects in veneer. You could conceivably take a single log, cut it four different ways, and end up with four completely different-looking sheets of veneer. Scroll down to learn more about how different cuts create different effects. Or give us a call, we’re happy to talk more about any aspect of veneer!

Flat cut (plain slicing)
A log is cut in half lengthwise and placed on the slicer. Individual leaves of veneer are cut parallel to the original cut. Flat cutting produces the well-known cathedral or loop-grain effect in the center of the leaf and straighter grain along the edges.

similar pattern  by turning flitch on a lathe

Half round
A log is cut in half lengthwise and placed slightly off center in a rotary slicer. The knife cuts slightly across the annular growth rings, producing a combination of rotary and flat-cut effects.

_________________________________________________Back to Top

Quarter cut
A log is cut in quarters lengthwise and placed on the slicer. Individual leaves of veneer are cut at a 90-degree angle to the growth rings. Quarter cutting produces a striped, often straight-grain effect.

_________________________________________________Back to Top

Rift cut
Oak is the only species that is rift cut. Instead of quarter cutting, oak is cut about 15 percent off the quartered position to avoid the bold flake effect caused by rays which radiate from the center of the oak log. Rift cutting produces a comb-grain effect.

_________________________________________________Back to Top

Rotary cut
A full log is placed in a lathe and turned against a blade which peels a continuous sheet of veneer along the annular growth rings. Rotary cut veneer is exceptionally wide and produces bold, variegated grain markings.