Flexible Plywood | Bendable Plywood Sheets | Builders Merchant
Â
Buy Flexible Plywood Online – Perfect for Curved Furniture & Interior Design
Need plywood that bends without breaking? Builders Merchant supplies premium flexible plywood (bendable plywood) designed for curves, arches, and creative designs. Available in multiple thicknesses for furniture making, wall panelling, and architectural features. Easy to shape, lightweight, and ready for finishing.
What is Flexible Plywood?
Flexible plywood – also called bendable plywood or flexi-ply – is engineered to curve and flex where standard plywood would crack or split. The thin veneer layers are arranged to allow tight radius bending while maintaining structural integrity.
Unlike rigid MDF or standard plywood, flexible plywood wraps around corners, columns, and curved frames without steaming, kerfing, or complex joinery. It delivers smooth, seamless finishes for professional results every time.
Key Benefits of Flexible Plywood
| Feature |
Benefit |
| Tight Radius Bending |
Curves to 25mm+ radius without cracking or splintering |
| Lightweight |
Easy to handle, transport, and install |
| Strong & Stable |
Maintains shape once fixed to framework |
| Easy to Finish |
Smooth surface ready for paint, stain, or varnish |
| Workable by Hand |
Cuts and sands with standard tools |
| Eco-Friendly |
Responsibly sourced timber |
Flexible Plywood Applications
Furniture Making
Create curved chairs, rounded cabinet doors, bow-front drawers, and sculptural tables. Flexible plywood eliminates complex joinery while delivering smooth, professional curves.
Interior Wall Panels
Design feature walls with wave patterns, curved partitions, or rounded architectural elements. Adds dimension and visual interest to residential and commercial spaces.
Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinetry
Perfect for curved island units, arched cabinet fronts, and custom fixtures. Achieves modern, sleek aesthetics without compromising durability.
Retail & Exhibition Displays
Lightweight enough for portable displays, strong enough for permanent fixtures. Create eye-catching curved stands, counters, and shelving that stands out.
Architectural Features
Curved ceiling panels, decorative columns, reception desks, and reception areas. Bends to match existing structures without complex cutting.
Flexible Plywood Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Alternative Names |
Bendable plywood, flexi-ply, bending plywood |
| Construction |
Thin layered veneer, cross-bonded for flexibility |
| Available Thicknesses |
3mm, 5mm, 8mm, 12mm (varies by bend radius required) |
| Bend Direction |
Long grain or cross grain options available |
| Sheet Sizes |
Standard 8ft x 4ft and custom cuts |
| Surface |
Smooth sanded face, ready for finishing |
| Machining |
Cuts with saw, router, or knife; sands easily |
How to Work with Flexible Plywood
1. Create a Framework
Build a curved frame or use formers to guide the plywood into position. Secure with adhesive, screws, or staples.
2. Cut to Size
Use a fine-tooth saw or router. Flexible plywood cuts cleanly without chipping.
3. Apply Gradually
Bend slowly into position. Thinner sheets (3-5mm) achieve tighter curves; thicker sheets (8-12mm) suit gradual arcs.
4. Finish Smoothly
Lightly sand before applying paint, stain, or varnish. Accepts all standard wood finishes.
FAQ's
What is flexible plywood used for?
Flexible plywood is ideal for curved furniture, arched cabinetry, decorative wall panels, rounded columns, retail displays, and any project requiring bent wood elements without complex joinery.
How much can flexible plywood bend?
Bend radius depends on thickness:
Is flexible plywood strong?
Yes. While designed to bend, it maintains structural stability once fixed to a framework. Suitable for load-bearing applications like furniture and cabinetry when properly supported.
Can you paint flexible plywood?
Absolutely. Flexible plywood has a smooth sanded surface that accepts paint, stain, varnish, and lacquer beautifully. Sand lightly between coats for best results.
What's the difference between flexible plywood and normal plywood?
Standard plywood is rigid and will crack if bent. Flexible plywood uses thinner veneers arranged to allow bending along the grain. It's specifically engineered for curves and shapes.
Is flexible plywood waterproof?
 Standard flexible plywood is interior grade. For moisture-prone areas (bathrooms, kitchens), seal with appropriate finishes or specify moisture-resistant flexible plywood.
Why Buy Flexible Plywood from Builders Merchant?
✓ High-quality bendable plywood in stock
✓ Multiple thicknesses for any curve radius
✓ Custom cutting service available
✓ Responsibly sourced timberÂ
✓ Competitive trade pricing ✓ Fast UK delivery
Get Your Flexible Plywood Quote
Transform your designs with plywood that bends to your creativity. Single sheets or bulk orders – we supply it all.
