moldedwood

Moldedwood refers to wood and wood-based materials formed by shaping in a mold to produce curved or complex profiles. The term is often used interchangeably with molded wood or molded plywood in furniture and architectural applications, where a wood veneer, fiber, or composite is shaped under heat and pressure into a single piece.

Manufacturing methods involve laying veneers or wood fibers in a mold, applying adhesives or resins, and applying heat and pressure to cure the material into a rigid form. Variants include hot-pressed veneer laminates, plywood formed in curved molds, and fiberboard-like composites, all designed to achieve consistent curvature and surface quality.

Historically, molded wood gained prominence in the 20th century as designers sought curved, lightweight alternatives to solid wood. The technique underpins molded plywood furniture popularized by designers such as Charles and Ray Eames in the 1940s. It also found use in automotive interiors, aircraft components, and architectural panels where uniform curves were desired.

Advantages of moldedwood include the ability to create smooth, continuous curves, efficient use of wood material, and potential for mass production. Limitations include reliance on precise molds, potential delamination or moisture sensitivity in some resin systems, and dependence on veneer quality or fiber consistency.

See also: Molded plywood, bentwood, wood composite. Notable examples and brands vary by region and era.