How to get VJ panelling look with hand saw?

Question

Hi, instead of using VJ panelling as I do not have an electric saw to cut it and order my items from Bunnings online, what type of wood planks could I buy to recreate this look. I have a small hand saw that I use to cut everything. Thank you

Dave-1 · Answer

Good Evening @DIYgirlie

@EricL has nailed it. Pretty much I would be suggesting the same thing. As a side note I built  my first bookcase using something very similar to the

140 x 12mm 5.4m Lining Board White Pine FJ Primed 302he has mentioned. I would give the handsaw a go at cutting the larger sheets tho as it will be a lot cheaper that way. When I have wanted to cut a sheet that size with a handsaw I have cheated and used a couple of clamps and a length of pine to keep my saw straight :) I tend to have a curved cut, especially if its a long time since I have cut a quantity of timber.

Dave

EricL · Answer

Hello @DIYgirlie

Thank you for sharing your question about VJ panelling. The good news is that you can cut the VJ panelling with an ordinary handsaw. Yes, you can cut relatively straight cuts with a proper pencil guide marked on the surface. The best technique is to take your time, rest between cuts if you wish and to keep a steady pace as you cut.

Bunnings offers home delivery for VJ panels, including standard parcel, Ute, or flatbed truck options depending on your location and the size of your panels. Delivery fees and timelines depend on your exact location and the size of your order. Please call your local store to find out how much it might cost you.

As an alternative to VJ panels, there are the following options:

* 900 x 1200mm 9mm Lining Panel White MDF Primed VJ 100mm 
* Easycraft® easyVJ100 General Purpose 9mm 900 x 1200mm MR MDF E0 Primed White (suggested because it is short)
* Project Panel 2400 x 1200mm 9mm Plywood V Grooved Lining Panel 
* 140 x 12mm 5.4m Lining Board White Pine FJ Primed 302

I suggest having a look at this guide - How to choose and use a hand saw. As for the top trim, I suggest looking at the timber moulding available online or you can visit the store and see what's in stock. An example is the 30 x 15mm 3m Clear Pine Dado Sheet or the Porta 18 x 11mm 2.4m Clear Pine Insert Mould. Your final step would be to paint the panels to the colour of your preference.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @Noyade and @DIY4Knuckleheds for their recommendations.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric