CNC Routing for MDF sheets

Our MDF material is a solid, comparative material to basic plywood and is almost indistinguishable in most applications. It’ll save you money on large runs of furniture production, panels for soundproofing, or even automotive usage by itself.

MDF size and thickness options

Min/max sizes for cutting:

.125″ – .250″ Thickness
A: .25″ x .375″
C: 30″ x 44″

.375″ – .500″ Thickness
B:
1″ x 2″
C: 30″ x 44″

When ordering MDF parts through SendCutSend, there are specific size and thickness parameters to keep in mind. For instant quoting, the smallest part size available is .25″ x .375″, while the largest part supported is 30″ x 44″. SendCutSend offers MDF in four thickness option: .125″(3.18mm), .250″(6.35mm) , .375″ (9.50mm), and .500(12.7mm).

MDF material details and specifications

.125" MDF

Material Details & Specifications

.250" MDF

Material Details & Specifications

.375" MDF

Material Details & Specifications

.500" MDF

Material Details & Specifications

3.18mm MDF

Material Details & Specifications

6.35mm MDF

Material Details & Specifications

9.5mm MDF

Material Details & Specifications

12.7mm MDF

Material Details & Specifications

Can you specify your MDF Finish color?

Due to ongoing global supply chain shortages, there will be variations in your custom cut MDF finish color and texture. Some variations of MDF may be darker and have a slight sheen, as shown in the images here. These darker variations will also have a dark cut edge and differing edge cut finish from our traditional MDF.

These finish variations will not alter the integrity of your parts in any way, but be aware that if you have multiple MDF parts in a single order, those parts may slightly vary in color and finish.

Plastic, composite, and wood materials cut on our CNC machine will have small tabs.

These tabs hold your parts in place while being cut to ensure the best accuracy possible. Click below to learn what to expect and how to best design with these tabs in mind.

Get started with instant pricing with a sample file!

Get started with instant pricing!

STRONG
WORKABLE
TREATABLE

What is MDF?

Our MDF, or Medium Density Fiberboard, is a unique composite wood material made from sawdust and fibers from both softwoods and hardwoods. These components are mixed with resin and then subjected to forming by extreme temperature and pressure, creating a spectacularly pliant and workable sheet material.

There’s a lot of information out there about real wood being superior to particleboard and MDF, but like with most projects, it really depends on what you need it for. The truth is MDF board functions about as well as, if not better than plywood for many project types. The key is knowing what you need from your board.

What can you make with MDF parts?

It should be noted that MDF is not ideal for external environments where it’d be subjected to the elements, as the material will warp and quickly fall apart. Although if you need a more accessible material for furniture, custom sound systems, or other indoor application, MDF will save you tons of cash in the long run and provide the same quality as a similar strength wood.

If you’re worried about off-gassing and potential liquid spillage ruining your finish, our MDF is treatable for a variety of purposes, such as fire resistance, liquid sealing, and different paints

Our custom cut MDF is guaranteed

We guarantee awesome quality parts. If you’re not 100% happy, we’ll give you a refund or remake on the spot – no questions, no hassle.

SendCutSend's custom custom cut MDF parts come with a money-back guarantee

MDF FAQs

SendCutSend offers MDF in four thickness option: .125″(3.18mm), .250″(6.35mm) , .375″ (9.50mm), and .500(12.7mm).

When ordering MDF parts through SendCutSend, there are specific size and thickness parameters to keep in mind. For instant quoting, the smallest part size available is .25″ x .375″, while the largest part supported is 30″ x 44″.

The following cutting methods are available for MDF parts:
CNC Routing or Laser Cutting

Start your first SendCutSend project today!

Upload your CAD design, or try one of our customizable part templates to get instant pricing on your custom laser cut parts. All delivered to your door in a matter of days.

MDF board: Smooth, consistent fiberboard

Medium Density Fiberboard, commonly called MDF, is a smooth, uniform, engineered wood panel made from wood fibers and resin that are pressed into dense, stable sheets. Makers, fabricators, and engineers use MDF for prototypes, fixtures, jigs, signage, furniture components, and decorative parts because it cuts cleanly, sands easily, and provides a flat, consistent surface for painting or finishing. At SendCutSend, we laser-cut and CNC route globally-sourced MDF in .125 inch to .500 inch thicknesses, with the cutting method selected automatically based on thickness and design geometry. Parts are produced with ±.005 inch tolerance for CNC routing and ±.009 inch tolerance for laser cutting, providing predictable, repeatable results for both functional and aesthetic projects.

What are the key things to know about MDF?

  • Smooth, uniform surface with no grain direction • Cuts cleanly with lasers or CNC routers • Affordable material for both prototypes and production parts • Accepts paint and finish very well • Not moisture resistant and is intended for indoor use only

Why do fabricators and makers use MDF for laser cut and routed parts?

Fabricators choose MDF because it provides a combination of smoothness, consistency, and affordability that is difficult to match with natural wood. There are no knots, voids, or grain patterns to work around, and the panel remains stable and uniform across its entire surface. Designers appreciate that the face finish looks clean and is easy to customize with paint, vinyl, engraving, tooling, or scoring. Common reasons people select MDF include: • It cuts predictably and cleanly. • It is ideal for prototypes due to its low cost. • It provides a flat, consistent painting surface. • Interior details, pockets, and patterns cut clearly. • It is available in thicknesses suitable for both delicate and structural components. MDF is a staple material for indoor projects where consistency and surface quality matter more than natural wood appearance.

How well does MDF laser cut?

MDF laser cuts well in thinner gauges and is one of the most widely tested and used materials for laser projects. What to expect from laser cutting MDF: • Clean, sharp edges • Consistent cutting across the entire sheet • Moderate edge darkening • Some smoke or soot that can be cleaned or sanded • Fine detail possible on .125 and .250 inch thicknesses Laser cutting is suitable for most 2D shapes, lettering, decorative cutouts, precision stencils, and interior features. For thicker sheets or complex parts where burning is a concern, SendCutSend will automatically switch to CNC routing.

When does SendCutSend use CNC routing instead of laser cutting for MDF?

The cutting method depends on both design and thickness. MDF tends to char under long laser exposure, so CNC routing is chosen when needed for clean results. Typical process assignments: • .125 inch to .250 inch MDF is usually laser cut • .375 inch to .500 inch MDF is usually CNC routed • Routing is used for thicker sheets or when geometry includes pockets or chamfers • Laser cutting is used for fine detail and clean internal features The SendCutSend quoting system automatically selects the best process for the material and design.

What are the advantages of using MDF?

Smooth and uniform surface

MDF has no knots, voids, or grain direction. This makes it excellent for painting, vinyl application, engraving, and decorative finishes.

Predictable cutting and machining

Because MDF is homogeneous, both laser cutters and CNC routers produce consistent edges and geometry across the sheet.

Affordable for prototyping

MDF is cost-effective, allowing designers to test concepts before moving to more expensive materials like birch plywood or acrylic.

Good for indoor furniture and decorative components

It provides a clean finish and is used extensively in cabinetry, retail displays, and interior architectural features.

Excellent for detailed shapes

MDF handles intricate laser cut patterns, routed pockets, and fine internal geometry without tear-out.

What are the limitations or drawbacks of MDF?

Not moisture resistant

MDF absorbs water and will swell or warp if exposed to moisture. For outdoor use or wet environments, consider: • HDPE Acrylic Polycarbonate

Dust and residue when machining

MDF creates fine dust during routing. SendCutSend manages this internally, but users should consider it when sanding or modifying parts.

Heavy for its size

MDF is denser than plywood, which can be an issue for large components.

Burns easily during laser engraving

Light scoring is fine, but deep engraving or slow cuts will leave heavy darkening.

Limited natural aesthetic

MDF is intended to be painted or finished and does not have the wood grain appearance of birch or hardwood.

How should I design parts for MDF?

MDF is easy to design for, but following a few guidelines improves quality and part longevity.

Recommended practices:

  • Keep internal features proportional. Thin walls under 0.10 inch may weaken or crumble. • Use fillets on internal corners to reduce stress and improve cut quality. • Plan for edge darkening when laser cutting. • Avoid extremely fine micro-details on .500 inch sheets. • Use mechanical fasteners with pilot holes to avoid splitting. • Consider cross bracing or thicker sheets for larger structural parts. • Seal or paint edges if appearance or moisture resistance is important.

Check out SendCutSend Design Guidelines for more tips on setting up your file for cutting with SendCutSend.

Where is MDF most commonly used?

MDF is used in woodworking, fabrication, retail displays, makerspaces, and prototyping across many industries. Typical applications include:

  • Furniture components • Cabinetry and interior panels • Laser cut artwork and décor • Prototyping and testing assemblies • Jigs, fixtures, and templates • Signage and letters • Packaging or product display builds • Model making and architectural mock-ups

Its versatility and affordability make it useful for both small creative projects and large-scale production runs.

When should I use MDF for my project?

Choose MDF when you need an inexpensive, smooth, stable board for indoor applications that require clean cutting, easy finishing, and predictable behavior. MDF is ideal for:

  • Painted parts • Decorative cutouts • Prototypes • Interior signage • Fixtures and jigs • Retail displays • Flat panels • Templates and patterns

MDF is not the right choice for:

  • Outdoor environments • Parts exposed to moisture • High load-bearing applications • Projects needing natural wood aesthetics

SendCutSend laser cuts or CNC routes MDF in thicknesses from .125 inch to .500 inch with 2 to 4 day lead times, providing clean, ready-to-use parts for both creative and functional projects.