Part 1
Introduction
Welcome
Veneering Basics
14 Good Reasons
Vacuum Press Uses
Deciding on a Model
Overview
____________________
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
____________________
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
____________________
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
____________________
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 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)

1. You are a woodworker and you enjoy building things right?
   Build a vacuum press and not only will you understand how the system works, you'll also get the satisfaction of knowing your veneered panels came out perfectly because you built the system.
2. The vacuum unit is very easy to build. The average builder can have the system completed in a few hours.
3. It's very affordable compared to the big name vacuum presses which can cost $700 or more.()
4. This vacuum press requires no proprietary parts. In other words, if something would ever need replacement, you will be able to find the parts without a hassle. The vacuum pumps we offer at VeneerSupplies.com are made in the USA and have rebuild kits that the manufacturers have promised to offer for a minimum of 10 years! In fact, Gast has been using the same filters, valves, and gaskets on their pumps since 1981.
5. The press will work on any size project from humidor lids to large table tops and even curved and bent lamination work.
6. Due to the nonproprietary nature of the veneer press, you'll find it very easy to modify and adapt. Many users are now building vacuum presses for use with vacuum chucking (when bowl turning) as well as vacuum clamping and templating.
7. Unlike the big vacuum press companies, the vacuum bags require no special equipment, chemicals, or kits to repair. If you built the vacuum bag with parts described in this article, you can patch a bag in less than a minute!
8. Since the press is built with heavy duty parts, it's durable, reliable, and predictable. I love "predictable"!
9. The venturi version of the vacuum press has only one moving part and weighs only 11 lbs.
10. The motorized pump version of the vacuum press operates quietly. You can carry on a conversation while standing right next to the system. And unlike the overpriced models sold at many woodworking stores, this system doesn't run continuously. When full vacuum is achieved, the pump shuts off automatically.
11. A vacuum press can be used for more than just veneering. It's also great for vacuum clamping, vacuum chucking, and more.
12. As of 1/08, there are more than 3,300 of these vacuum presses in use around the world. Since October 2002, I've personally answered over 23,000 emails from hobbyist woodworkers, hi-end furniture manufacturers, stereo speaker builders, skateboard builders and radio controlled plane/glider builders. Many of these emails resulted in adjustments and clarifications to the vacuum press article. I answer emails several times each day (including weekends).
13. The vacuum press articles are continuously being improved. I use the vacuum presses on a regular basis and I'm always looking for an easier, more durable, or less expensive way to modify the unit. And with so many users out there, I receive a constant flow of contributions and suggestions for improvement.
14. I support this vacuum system 150%. If you have any questions before, during, or after its construction, do not hesitate to email me.