Birch plywood is a top choice for furniture makers, but do you know which size or thickness fits your project best? Picking the wrong one can waste time and money.
The most common birch plywood sizes are 4x8 feet (1220x2440mm) and 5x5 feet (1500x1500mm), with thicknesses ranging from 1/8" (3mm) to 1-1/4" (30mm). For furniture, 1/2" (12mm) and 3/4" (18mm) are the best options.
Let’s break down the details so you can make the right choice for your needs.
1. Introduction: What is Birch Plywood?
Ever wondered why birch plywood1 is so popular in furniture making? It’s strong, smooth, and lasts long—but there’s more to it.
Birch plywood is made from thin layers of birch veneer glued together. It’s stronger than regular wood2, resists warping3, and has a fine, even surface perfect for painting or veneering.
Now, let’s explore the sizes and thicknesses available.
2. What sizes does birch plywood come in?
Struggling to find the right plywood size? Standard dimensions save time, but custom cuts might be necessary for unique projects.
The most common sizes are:
- 4x8 feet (1220x2440mm) – Widely used in North America.
- 5x5 feet (1500x1500mm) – Popular in Europe and Asia.
- Smaller sheets like 2x4 feet (610x1220mm) are also available for DIY projects.
Why Size Matters
Different regions prefer different sizes. If you export furniture, knowing the standard sizes in your target market helps avoid extra cutting costs.
Standard Sizes Comparison
| Region | Common Size (feet) | Common Size (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| North America | 4x8 | 1220x2440 |
| Europe | 5x5 | 1500x1500 |
| Asia | 4x8 or 5x5 | 1220x2440 or 1500x1500 |
Custom sizes are possible but may cost more. Next, let’s talk about thickness.
3. What is the best thickness of birch plywood for furniture?
Choosing the wrong thickness can weaken your furniture or make it unnecessarily heavy. So, what’s the best pick?
For most furniture, 1/2" (12mm) and 3/4" (18mm) are ideal. They balance strength and weight well.
Thickness Guide for Different Uses
- 1/8" to 1/4" (3-6mm) – Best for lightweight projects like model making or drawer bottoms.
- 1/2" (12mm) – Perfect for shelves, cabinets, and small tables.
- 3/4" (18mm) – Great for heavy-duty furniture like desks and bed frames.
- 1" to 1-1/4" (25-30mm) – Used for countertops or structural support.
Thicker plywood costs more, so pick wisely. Next, let’s see if you can get custom sizes.
4. Can I customize birch plywood sizes with ACEALL?
Need a special size? Many suppliers stick to standard sheets, but flexibility matters for unique designs.
Yes! At ACEALL, we offer custom-cut birch plywood to fit your exact needs. Whether it’s an unusual dimension or a specific thickness, we can do it.
Benefits of Custom Sizes
- Less waste – Get the exact size you need.
- Saves time – No extra cutting on your end.
- Better for unique designs – Perfect for high-end furniture.
Just send us your requirements, and we’ll handle the rest.
5. How to choose between BB/BB and BB/CP grades?
Not all birch plywood is the same. The grade affects looks and durability—so which one should you pick?
- BB/BB – Both sides are smooth and free of defects. Best for visible surfaces like tabletops.
- BB/CP – One smooth side (BB), one rougher side (CP). Good for hidden parts like cabinet backs.
When to Use Each Grade
| Grade | Best For | Not Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| BB/BB | Furniture fronts, tabletops | Budget projects |
| BB/CP | Cabinet backs, hidden parts | Visible surfaces |
Higher grades cost more, so choose based on where the plywood will be used.
Conclusion
Birch plywood comes in standard sizes like 4x8ft and 5x5ft, with thicknesses from 3mm to 30mm. For furniture, 12mm and 18mm work best. Need custom sizes? ACEALL can help. Choose BB/BB for visible parts and BB/CP for hidden ones.
Got questions? Email me at sales@aceallwood.com—I’m Zoe from ACEALL, and I’m happy to help!
