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)

Think of the vacuum bag as a giant sandwich bag (aka "Zip Lock" bag) in which the air is removed by a vacuum source such as an air-powered venturi or an electric vacuum pump. When set up correctly, this creates approximately 1700 lbs per square foot of evenly distributed pressure inside the vacuum bag which is perfect for vacuum veneering.

A vacuum bag typically includes a valve stem and a bag closure system.

Selecting a Bag Size

By far, the most common question I receive about vacuum bagging is related to choosing the right size. You have to ask yourself three questions.

What is the largest project size that you can imagine vacuum pressing?
If you can envision your largest project being 3' x 4', you'll probably be very happy with a 4' x 4' vacuum bag.

Does the inconvenience of using a large bag for a small project bother you?
If so, I recommend getting a smaller bag to go along with a larger bag. I use a 4 x 8 vinyl bag for some of my work but I like the convenience and usability of a 2 x 4 polyurethane bag which I use for the largest portion of my furniture projects.

Will your vacuum press system be fast enough for the bag size you need?
Ultimately, the speed of vacuum flow from your vacuum source is what determines the maximum bag size that you should consider. If your system is underpowered, the bag will not pull down fast enough and the glue will set up before full pressure is on the veneer. A failed panel is a sure thing in this case.

An Ounce of Prevention...

There are two critical aspects to making a vacuum bag last for a very long time. The first is to make sure there are no sharp edges inside the bag. This includes the platens and the project panels.

Second, be careful that you do not stress the seams on your vacuum bag. The seams will surely break if they are being pulled apart by vacuum pressure. With a bag of the correct size, the seams will pull together. Imagine a very small project inside a large bag. Under pressure, you would notice that the seams actually pull together and are under virtually no stress.

Vacuum Bagging Tips

• Other than inconvenience, there is nothing wrong with using a large bag for a small project.
• If you have a large project going into a large vacuum press bag, consider cutting off the seal on the far end of the bag and using a second bag closure. It is much easier for two people to load the project when one person can help pull it in from the other side.