Applying vinyl sticker to wood?

[denno020]

Hi guys,

I'm looking to make a desk out of mdf that I already have (I will be bracing the underside to prevent sag as much as possible), but anyway, as I don't want the desk to look like an mdf one, I want to cover it with something.. I was originally thinking of using some wood vinyl, however I'm finding it hard to find anything like what I could use on ebay.. I then also thought about using carbon fiber 3d film (please don't hate me for it).. I think it'll look cool, but I'm not sure how the best way to apply it to the wood would be..

Could I please have some tips? As in, what sort of finishing would I have to do to the mdf first, before trying to apply the vinyl sticker.. For reference, I'm looking at this item on ebay, to use as the desk-top covering eBay Australia: Buy new & used fashion, electronics & home d (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/190584413249?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649#ht_5671wt_1037)

I'm already set on using the mdf because I don't have to purchase it. Ideally I would use plywood, but for now I want to save as much cost as I can.

Thanks.

[Master Splinter]

Ummm... it's self adhesive...however I don't think it would be a very durable surface in a tabletop application. Pre-application I'd just wipe the MDF with a rag with some wax and grease solvent then hit it with the air compressor to de-dust and evaporate any leftover solvent.

Buy some real carbon fibre and epoxy - Carbon Fibre Cloth 3K 2X2 Twill Weave 1000mm X 1000mm REAL CF Not Plastic | eBay (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Carbon-Fibre-Cloth-3K-2X2-Twill-Weave-1000mm-X-1000mm-REAL-CF-Not-Plastic-/320916700744?pt=AU_Car_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4ab8203e48) - and use that!!!

[denno020]

Thanks for the reply mate.

I was aware it was self adhesive, but I wasn't sure how it would go sticking to the mdf, without first putting something on it.

It would be cool to use real carbon fibre, but I'm making a big desk (2000mm x 800mm), so it would prove to be rather expensive to cover it that way.

However, I didn't even think of how much ware it would take :/, bit silly of me.. However, for a cheap desk it wouldn't be too bad for now.. I just need something to do until I make something more permanent and from decent materials.

[Master Splinter]

Cheap option and reasonably durable option - go to Clarke Rubber or similar, buy some upholstery vinyl, throw it over, stretch tight and staple it on the underside. Or just slap some clear polyurethane floor varnish over it. If possible round off the edges for a more 'elegant' (if any mdf can ever be described as elegant) look.

[denno020]

Thanks again mate, I didn't even think of Clark Rubber