BALTIC BIRCH WOOD FOR ARTISTS

Baltic Birch Wood comes from the Birch tree, which is a member of the Betula species family and are native to Europe in areas around the Baltic Sea. Birch wood can be characterized by hardwoods or softwoods. Hardwoods refers to plants with seeds that are enclosed (ie. fruit) whereas softwoods are from plants with exposed or unenclosed seeds such as pine cones. Like its family members, Birchwood has smooth, usually pale or white bark that is sturdy and thick. Birchwood can also be identified by its fine-grain texture. Birch wood is also distinctive due to its closed-pore structure.

SUMMARY PROPERTIES AND APPLICATION PAINTING ON BALTIC BIRCHWOOD CUSTOM VS. STOCK SIZE, PANELS/SHEETS HOW TO ORDER? Baltic birch plywood is unique in that it is constructed with a solid and thick birch veneer core with multiple layers or plies, which is then cross-banded and laminated with a strong wood adhesive. This following section will explore, properties and advantages of working with birch material. Few simple steps and tips that can be taken to ensure that a Birchwood board is properly prepped and well protected for oil and acrylic painting. Comparison of stocked and custom-sized wood panels/sheets Click here for Custom Size Panels. Click here for Stocked Size.

PROPERTIES AND APPLICATION

Baltic birch plywood is unique in that it is constructed with a solid and thick birch veneer core with multiple layers or plies, which is then cross-banded and laminated with a strong wood adhesive. This attributes to many advantages, including the following: Smooth joining on the edges as birch plywood does not have any voids. Ability to hold screws well; The strong core of the wood allows the screws to grip better, as it does not tend to grip well soft-cored wood. Strength and sturdiness; the veneer core and cross-banded layers attribute to the plywood's strength and durability, making it less susceptible to warping and breakage and increases its archivability and longevity. Birch plywood is void-free and tends to have a thicker veneer core than traditional plywood. Due to its many advantages, baltic birch plywood can be an ideal substrate for woodworking and large art projects. Birch plywood is generally used for the following: Furniture and furniture support Cabinet-making Drawers Laser cutting and engraving Tool stands Fencing Craft tables Wood veneers Skateboards Signage Flooring Sheathing

Baltic Birchwood. Ideal substrate for woodworking and large projects.

PAINTING ON BALTIC BIRCHWOOD

As mentioned above, birchwood surfaces are some of the most common mediums used for painting. There are a few simple steps that can be taken to ensure that a Birchwood board is properly prepped and well protected for oil and acrylic painting. Preparation With a damp cloth, gently wipe the surface of the plywood. Water will cause the grain to rise which will allow for better grip and make the sanding process easier. Use sandpaper with 100-120 grit and sand the wood surface. It is important to note to sand with the grain (the same direction as the grain growth), not against the grain. Sand the surface a second time using a higher grit sandpaper (ideally 200 or 220-grit sandpaper) to ensure a smooth face. This will allow the paint to better adhere to the wooden surface. Wipe down the sand residue with ethanol (known as ethyl alcohol or denatured alcohol). Sealing & Priming Note that this step is essential in creating a base for the paint to adhere to the wood surface, as well as protect the wood surface underneath the paint from making contact with the inside of the wood, which may affect the structure and fibers. Sealing also ensures the longevity of the panel. Once the panel has been prepped, apply a sealer. Applying a sealer will create a barrier between the panel and the paint. This will prevent the oils from the paint to seep into the wood, which may cause the wood fibers to rot. Additionally, applying a sealer will ensure that the wood surface does not turn yellow or discolor overtime. Furthermore, sealing will prevent the wood from warping when exposed to factors such as weather, moisture, and humidity. Once the sealant has dried, coat the surface with a paint primer for wood or Gesso. Allow the primer to dry before lightly sanding and wiping residue. Apply a second or third layer, sanding after each layer has been applied. Applying primer on top of the sealer will allow for better adhesion and a smoother surface for painting.

Birch surface closeup, 1/8" Once boards are prepped, it can be used to create art. Here is an example of dry mounting on wood panel w/ resin coating.

CUSTOM VS. STOCK SIZE, PANELS/SHEETS

Cradled panels are made by attaching a 1/8" thick birch plywood sheet onto a wood base frame. We offer both stocked and custom-sized wood panels and sheets. Cradled wood panels are an ideal medium for art projects. We recommends using cradled birch wood panels for dry mounting your favourite photograph or print (as birchwood panels are a strong substrate), bringing your vision to life with painting (see preparation instructions above), collages (as a medium for your collage prints or as multi panels for a large collage design), sculptures (due to its rigidity and strength), framing (ready to hang or use the panel as a riser/support), and other types of 3D Art. Custom-sized wood panels: Custom-sized wood panels come in 1/8" or 1/4" thicknesses and can be custom cut from 4 by 4 inch to up to 120 by 60 inch (5ft by 10ft). Stocked size: Stocked panels range from 4 by 4 inch up to 60 by 40 inch. Currently, we offer baltic birch stocked wood panels in two depths: 15/16" and 1-5/8" depth. Birch plywood boards/sheets: We also offer birch plywood boards/sheets in 1/8" ( approximately 3mm) thicknesses and offers sizes ranging from 4 by 4 up to 48 by 60 inch (4ft by 5ft).

Wood panel size comparison, 1-5/8", 15/16" and birch surface 1/8"

HOW TO ORDER?

For Custom-Size: Click on Custom Size Panels. Enter exact dimensions (width and the height) and the number of quantities (QTY) on Price Calculator. Click Calculate Results. Based on your added information. A list of options will be generated. Click Add to Cart to proceed. Once again review your order. Add notes for specific instructions and update any changes. Finally, press Checkout to place an order. You will receive an order confirmation email. For Stocked Size: Click on Wood Panels, Stocked Size. Based on your particular preferences, you may choose Standard 15/16 inch deep, Profile 1-5/8 inch deep, Wood Painting Panel w/edge or Round wood painting panels. Enter quantity (qty). Click Add to Cart to proceed. Once again review your order. Add notes for specific instructions and update any changes. Finally, press Checkout to place an order. You will receive an order confirmation email. For more information on Cradled wood panels, check out our Guide on Birch Wood.

Painting on Cradled Panel.

If you have questions about any of our services or products, don't hesitate to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to assist with answers, advice, or suggestions.