Part 1
Introduction
Welcome
Veneering Basics
14 Good Reasons
Vacuum Press Uses
Deciding on a Model
Overview
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Part 2a (Option 1 of 2)
Project: V2 Venturi Press
About Project: V2
Parts List
Build the Manifold
Build the Reservoirs
Assemble the Venturi
Make the Carrier
Wire the Press
Testing and Adjusting
Mods and Options
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Part 2b (Option 2 of 2)
Project: EVS Pump Press
About Project: EVS
Parts List
Pump Selection
Build the Manifold
Build the Sub-Manifold
Build the Reservoirs
Make the Carrier
Final Assembly
Wire the Press
Testing and Adjusting
Mods and Options
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Part 3
Vacuum Bags
Vacuum Bag Basics
Polyurethane vs. Vinyl
DIY Vacuum Bags (A)
DIY Vacuum Bags (B)
DIY Vacuum Bags (C)
Connect the Bag
Bag Closures
Platens/Cauls
Breather Mesh
Maintenance
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Part 4
Veneer Information
About Veneer
Backer Veneer
Veneer Glues
Veneering Tips
Substrate Materials
Flattening Veneers
Edgebanding Guide
A Sharp Veneer Saw
Jointing Veneers
Taping Veneers
Dealing with Defects
Curing Glued Panels
Veneering w/o Vacuum
Iron-On Veneering
Veneer Storage
Amazing Bookmatches
Copper Veneer Guide
Paperbacked Veneer ____________________
Part 5
Miscellaneous Info
Vacuum Frame Press
Vacuum Forming
Vacuum Chucking
Vacuum Clamping
Vacuum Clamp Matrix
Vacuum Infusing
DIY Vacuum Manifold
JWW Visitors' Vacs
Veneer Quality
HH-66 MSDS
Veneering FAQ
The Vac FAQ
Downloads (PDF's)

Method #1 (of 2): The VeneerSupplies.com Valve Stem

1. Cut a 3/8" hole near the top center of the vacuum bag to accept the valve stem body.
2. To significantly increase the speed of air flow from the vacuum bag, remove the valve core inside the stem with a pair of small tweezers or a dedicated core remover. The valve core is the largest flow restrictor in the system.
3. Cut a 3/8" hole near the top center of the vacuum bag to accept the valve stem body.
4. Slide one of the grommet/washers onto the valve stem body with the black side facing up.
5. Insert this portion of the assembly through the hole in the vacuum bag.
6. Slide the other grommet/washer onto the valve stem with the black side facing down (against the vinyl).
7. Attach the washer and tighten the nut with a 9/16" wrench. One complete turn past standard hand/finger tightening will suffice.

See the vacuum connector lock on and stay on! (385k)

Method #2 (of 2): Do It Yourself Automotive Valve Stem

Cut two pieces of vinyl sheeting about 4"x4". Using the HH-66, cement one of these vinyl pieces inside the bag (at the center) and one on the outside of the bag (directly over the bottom 4x4 piece). Use the acetone or xylene to clean the vinyl first. Place a piece of scrap wood under the inside 4x4 to prevent cementing it to the inside-bottom of the bag. Press the assembly down with the seam tool. This process adds strength to the stem area where a bag split can commonly occur.

The cement is extremely flammable and will destroy your brain if you don’t use it in a well ventilated area.

Now cut a 3/8" hole in the center of this reinforced area.

Get the Valve Stem Ready
Remove the valve assembly inside the mag stem by unscrewing it using two small flat head screwdrivers or a pair of tweezers. Discard the valve assembly. Now use a Dremel tool or hack saw to cut an "X" on the bottom of the valve stem about 1/8" deep. This will allow air to escape, even if the bottom of the stem is pressed against the flat area on the top of the platen.

You will need to remove the extrusions on the black washers so that the only rubber that is left is a flat washer, similar to the ones in the picture. Place one of these washers on the stem. Insert the valve stem up through the bag and out the top. Press the other soft rubber washer onto the stem, and place the metal washer and nut on top. Tighten this firmly.

To connect the vinyl tube from the vacuum press to the stem, simply slip it down onto the stem as far as it will go. Fasten a hose clamp around the stem. Tighten this securely and the stem is complete.