To kerf or not to kerf

[Mark Gunter]

I’m ready to skin the top & using 1/4” birch (not Baltic birch) plywood. My front end has a 24” radius. Do I need to cut kerfs before bending? And if so, any recommendations on how far apart to make the kerfs?

Thanks in advance

 

[QueticoBill]

2' is about minimum bend radius for 1/4". personally, I'd worry about kerfing it, afraid it would split opposite kerf. I read you should be able to make it more pliable by wetting it - wet towels for a day or two. No personal experience with wetting.

 

[Mark Gunter]

Thank you, I went ahead without kerfing last night and got it done.

 

[Mark Gunter]

I used straps to help out on the last half of the panel. My tt is a standy, 7'3" wide