You can think of the point of intersection as the point where you’d put the pin of a compass in order to trace the edge of the curve. [2] X Research source The larger the radius of the curve, the gentler the bend. If the radius is three inches or more, then you can attempt to cold bend your laminate.
If the edge is not perfectly square, then you can smooth down the vertical surface with a belt sander to finish preparing it for the laminate. [5] X Research source
A J-roller is a roller with a rubber head that allows you to roll any bubbles out of the laminate without damaging the surface. You should have one handy for all laminate projects.
Once the entire strip is in place, you want to continue making several more passes across the entire thing with your J-roller to ensure that you don’t have any bubbles or gaps. [9] X Research source
Another option if you cannot find vertical grade laminate in the finish you need is to thin your standard grade laminate by hand. Using a belt sander, carefully sand down the application side of the laminate across the area of the strip that you need to bend so it becomes more pliable. [10] X Research source Be extremely careful and sand the portion to be bent to a thickness of approximately 0. 7mm
Heat only the section you need to bend and keep the heat gun moving over that section without focusing on one spot too long. A temperature gun is recommended to verify your heated temperature. In excess of 170 °C (338 °F), your laminate can begin to warp or bubble and your application J-roller can begin to melt.
Depending on the manufacturer and grade of laminate used, this method can yield curved bends around a radius as small as 5/8” or 9/16”
