How to Make Wood Flexible

Want to bend your wood? Here's how.

Make sure you have the frame or mold ready.

Soak the wood for bending in water (hot water works best) for several minutes to several hours (depending on the thickness), or leave out in the rain. Use a hose or a sponge. Carefully bend while still wet, and allow to dry. Apply minimal direct heat (blow dry). Hold with clamps.

Bend along the grain if the width is shorter, across the grain if the width is greater.

Score with a knife. Create several, evenly spaced scores across the desired bend of the wood using a knife. Make sure the scores are inside the curve when bending. For bigger, thicker projects, use a table saw to create even spaces.

Consider using several thin strips of wood (like wood veneer) instead of one thick plank to bend. Use a thin layer of wood glue between the strips and bend it to the desired shape carefully. Use a mold if possible. Hold in place to dry using several sets of clamps.

Whip out the router. Sometimes, it is the only tool you need if it is only for a small curve (on table corners, edges).

Tips

• Remember, the bigger and smoother the curve, the easier it is to bend. Consider changing your design for the project if there are too many small curves, or shape the wood with a router instead of bending it.

Warnings

• Power tools involved.
• Splinter warning.
• Knife and other sharp implements involved.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Patience
• Frame/Mold
• Clamps
• Knife, or Table Saw
• Last resort: Router