MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard, MDF Draft Board)

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) - MDF Draft Board Sheets

Smooth, extra-refined MDF sheets for laser cutting, CNC machining, prototyping, and DIY projects – perfect for makers, builders, schools, and businesses!

Get your next project started with our premium MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) sheets, the go-to choice for laser cutting, engraving, CNC machining, model making, and craft projects. Engineered from compressed wood fibers and resin, MDF offers a smooth, uniform surface and consistent density, making it ideal for precision crafting and professional builds. Its affordability and workability make it an excellent choice for prototyping, hence it is sometimes referred to as MDF Draft Board.

Available in thicknesses from 1/8" to ½”. Choose from ten stock sizes, including Glowforge-friendly 12" x 20". You can also order custom-cut MDF panels online here or by contacting support@makerstock.com. With $12 flat-rate shipping per 50lb box, it’s the cost-effective solution for makers, businesses, and hobbyists. Order now to craft with precision and ease!

Why Buy from MakerStock?

• Premium Quality: MDF sheets with a smooth, light tan color and uniform density (788 kg/m³ or 0.028 lb/in³) for clean laser cutting and engraving.

• Laser-Safe & Versatile: Cuts cleanly with CO2 lasers and Diode lasers, producing crisp, browned edges for intricate designs.

• Custom Cuts: Order custom-sized MDF panels online or email support@makerstock.com for larger sizes.

• Affordable Shipping: $12 flat-rate shipping per 50lb box across the continental US—perfect for bulk orders.

• Durable & Workable: Lightweight, paint-receptive, and easy to cut, drill, or glue for versatile applications. MDF can be cut with most wood working tools. 

• Maker-Ready: Smooth surface ensures a flawless finish for painting, applying veneers or adhering to plywood. 

Perfect For:

• Laser Cutting & Engraving: Create detailed MDF signs, coasters, puzzles, or ornaments with CO2 or diode lasers.

• CNC Milling & Machining: Fabricate prototypes, shop jigs, or furniture components with precision.

• Custom Speaker Enclosures: Build audio speaker boxes or subwoofer enclosures leveraging MDF’s density for superior sound quality.

• Craft & School Projects: Ideal for DIY home decor, classroom models, or prototyping templates.

• Tool Organizers: Design custom tool racks or workshop organizers for efficient storage.

Project Inspiration:

• Makers: Laser-cut MDF keychains, engraved wall art, or CNC-milled organizers for a polished look.

• Schools: Engrave and cut educational kits for STEM projects, such as physics models or geometry puzzles, for interactive classroom learning.

• Businesses: Create custom product boxes, clock faces, wall art or laser-engrave room dividers to enhance privacy and aesthetics in shared workspaces.

• Hobbyists: Design model train layouts, custom game boards or gaming terrain, or craft storage units with precision and affordability.

Explore Related Products:

• PSA Veneer Sheets: Add natural wood grain with our selection of easy to use PSA real wood Veener sheets, including Cherry, Bamboo, and Walnut.

• Melamine Faced MDF: Elevate your projects with our two sided Melamine with MDF Core for a polished, ready-to-use finish.

Specifications:

• Material: Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF), engineered from wood fibers and resin.

• Nominal Thickness Options:

• 1/8" / 3mm

• 1/4" / 6mm

• 1/2" / 12mm

• Density: 788 kg/m³ (0.028 lb/in³).

• Finish: Smooth, sanded, paint- and stain-receptive; no protective masking.

• Tolerances: Cut tolerance of +/1 -0.188" for all panel dimensions (in inches).

• Custom Sizes: Order via custom listings or email support@makerstock.com.

Pro Tip:

For optimal laser cutting, secure MDF sheets with a jig or tape to prevent movement. Store sheets flat, in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.

FAQs:

• Is MDF good for laser cutting? Yes, MDF sheets are ideal for CO2 laser cutting, producing clean edges with minimal power.

• Can I use MDF outdoors? Our MDF is interior-grade and not moisture-resistant. For outdoor use, consider marine grade plywood.

• Is MDF safe for school projects? Yes! Historically the glue used in MDF (and in plywood for that matter) contained formaldehyde, which could result in off-gassing and potential human health risks. Since Spring 2019, all plywood and MDF sold in the US must comply with quite stringent California and US regulatory standards. The level of formaldehyde is very, very low. (For the details, see https://www.epa.gov/formaldehyde/formaldehyde-emission-standards-composite-wood-products).

• Can I paint or stain MDF? Yes, MDF’s smooth surface is highly paint- and stain-receptive. Sand lightly and apply a primer for best results. Please keep in mind that MDF is dense and will soak up lots of stain.

• Can I use a diode laser to cut or engrave MDF? Yes, diode lasercan engrave MDF with a high-contrast finish but may require multiple passes to cut thin sheets. Check your owner’s manual for recommended settings.

• What’s the difference between MDF and plywood? MDF is made from pre-consumer recycled wood, usually sawdust from a sawmill or wood chips from lumber operations. The wood particles are mixed into a dough with a polymer binder (e.g., “glue” or “resin”) and consolidated under heat and pressure to form a panel. It provides a smooth, uniform surface ideal for painting and engraving but less strength than plywood, which has layered wood veneers for greater structural integrity and a natural grain.