Baltic Birch Plywood Sheets are not a specific species of birch, but is a general designation of plywood from Russia and nearby Baltic states (such as Finland). As with any natural wood product, quality can be variable. However, Baltic Birch plywood is generally regarded as being of higher quality than standard birch plywood.
In a nutshell, Baltic Birch plywood is made entirely from birch plies, with no softwood or filler plies in the center. Furthermore, the plies themselves tend to be much thinner, allowing for more plies for a given thickness, and greater stiffness and stability.
Baltic Birch Plywood Sheets Stocked
| Face | Backing | Core | Sides | |
| 1/8 in | B | BB | Veneer | 2 |
| 1/4 in | B | BB | Veneer | 2 |
| 3/8 in | BB | BB | Veneer | 2 |
| 1/2 in | B | BB | Veneer | 2 |
| 5/8 in | B | BB | Veneer | 2 |
| 3/4 in | B | BB | Veneer | 2 |
These sheets are also available in BB/BB Grades and we do stock some BB/CP Grade in a variety in thicknesses.
AA-Grade Face
Highest quality veneer you can specify in any particular species. The veneer will be smooth, tight cut, and full length and free of any visible defects or abnormalities.
A-Grade Face
An “A” face on hardwood plywood should be matched for both grain and color. All veneer splices should be book-matched for a visually pleasing appearance. There should not be any abrupt changes in color or grain between the splices. An “A” face will not permit sound knots, repaired knots or rough-cut veneer. An A face may allow slight mineral streak and/or vine marks. The number of defects such as pin knots or small burls varies according to the specie of veneer. This is the best face grade on plywood normally stocked and is often used for upper-end cabinetry, architectural millwork, and quality furniture.
B-Grade Face
A “B” face on hardwood plywood should be matched for a pleasing color, but not necessarily for grain. “B” grade faces are generally very similar to “A” faces, but do allow some sound or repaired knots and some slight rough cut veneer. “B” grade faces will also allow slight mineral streak and vine marks.
C-Grade Face
A “C” face on hardwood plywood allows for unlimited pin knots and small burls. A “C” face can also contain repaired knots and sound knots. The “C” grade will also allow unlimited mineral and vine marks. A “C” face should be a sound smooth face. A “C” face is used primarily on paint grade type panels, in lower-end case work, and for cabinet interiors in upper-end cabinetry.
