BIRCH PLYWOOD
Birch: a versatile, sustainable resource
Birch is a fast-growing, highly renewable hardwood found throughout the forests of the northern hemisphere, particularly in Northern Europe and the Baltic region. Almost every part of the tree is put to use, and when harvested responsibly, birch forests continue to support rich and diverse wildlife.
Strong, stable and beautifully pale with a fine, even grain, sustainably sourced birch plywood is the natural choice for furniture makers, joiners, interior designers and commercial fit-outs. Its distinctive layered edge looks stunning when CNC-machined or left exposed. At Cut and Edge Express, we cut birch and marine plywood to size in our Peterborough workshop.
How plywood is made
Birch plywood grades
Premium birch plywood grades for superior quality
Birch plywood is graded by the quality of its face veneers rather than its core. We supply only the two higher grades, ideal for furniture making and clear-lacquered finishes; lower grades are generally used for structural work and packaging.
Grade B/BB
Generally, the best grade available for clear-finishing. Good clean appearance, only minor, natural features, i.e. small pin knots permitted on the ‘B’ Face. ‘B’ grade usually is only available with ‘BB’ Grade reverse. Available in Long grain construction.
Grade BB/BB
The primary commercial or utility-grade – both faces are Grade BB – which allows patches and other knots and imperfections. Suitable for all general work including CNC machining or where face grade not overly critical. However, good quality BB grade boards may be acceptable for clear-finishing in furniture. Available in Long or Cross-grain construction.
When Appearance Is Less Important
Why we only supply higher grades
We exclusively supply the higher grades of birch plywood, suited to furniture and high-quality finishes. For reference, the lower grades below share the same strong, reliable core but have a far less refined appearance.
Grade BB/CP and BB/WG
Grade BB face with WG or CP reverse. Standard commercial classes that essentially have only one good side — reverse side can have numerous large knots, open splits, defects and discolouration.
Grade CP
A grade between BB and WG, used where a good face appearance is not essential – for example packing crates and hidden furniture carcasses.
Grade C
Similar appearance and use as Grade WG — may be un-sanded with open defects and discolouration.
Grade WG
Large knots, patches, open defects, staining and discolouration permitted. Used for packing crates and carcass work or when hidden, such as upholstered furniture.
Browse Our Plywood Range and Order Online
Explore our range of premium birch and marine plywood. Choose your board online, build your cutting list with the sizes and quantities you need, and receive an instant quote with no account required. We will cut, edge and deliver your plywood panels from our Peterborough workshop.