Q:

I’m making Greg Paolini’s Morris chair (“Build a Bow-Arm Morris Chair,” FWW #205). When gluing the veneers to the legs, I ended up with some gaps along the glueline. How do I fix them?

Albert Sisk, Ayer, MA

A:

Even using lots of glue, cauls, and a bunch of clamps, a gap between the veneer and the blank can happen. Before covering it up, check to make sure there’s not a bigger bond failure. Do this by tapping on it to see if it sounds hollow. If that’s the case, you’ll have to plane off the old veneer, and apply a new one. It’s a simple fix, but time-consuming.

If the gap is only cosmetic, ignore it until after the final layer of finish is applied. Then fill the gaps with hard wax sticks, which come in many colors to match the finish and are available at some home centers and finish-supply houses.

Wax to the rescue.
Push the stick back and forth over the gap, working the wax into the void.

Can you see me now?
The wax stick does such a good job that you’ll have a hard time finding the repair, and no one else will ever know.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Craftsman Random Orbit Sander

While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.

Buy at Amazon

Jorgensen 6 inch Bar Clamp Set, 4 Pack

Small light-duty clamps are best bought in quantity. These clamps are a great balance of affordability and quality—so stock up!

Buy at Amazon

Bessey K-Body Parallel-Jaw Clamp

The 3 3/4" deep parallel jaws allow for all types of clamping, from thin panels to joinery.

Buy at Amazon