The Cuts Used to Create Veneer

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The size of the log, the species of wood, the grain pattern desired and other factors determine which type of cut will be made to create veneer. Below are some of the mosts common methods of cutting logs.

The saw blade (right) used in these illustrations is not what is actually used to cut veneer. It is only a simple representation to show where the cut is made. The type of blades used for cutting varies from mill to mill and cut to cut.

	Rotary Cut The log is centered on a lathe and turned against a broad cutting knife set into the log at a slight angle.
	Quarter Slicing The slicing is made perpendictular to the annual growth rings of the tree. This creates a straight grain appearance
	Lengthwise Slicing This is done from a board of flat sawn lumber rather than from a log. A variegated figure is created with this slice.
	Plain Slicing By slicing parallel to the center of the log, a raised "cathedral effect" is formed by the innermost growth rings
	Half-Round Slicing Sliced on an arc parallel to the center of the log, this cut achieves a flat-cut veneer appearance.
	Rift Cut This straight grain cut is derived by slicing red and white oak at a slight angle to minimize the irregularities in the wood.