Weldwood Plywood For Architectural Use. Trade Catalogue

UNITED STATES PLYWOOD CORPORATION

Publication: United States Plywood Corporation, n d (ca 1950), New York

First edition of this very scarce post-World War II salesman sample catalogue for the Weldwood Plywood assembled from domestic and imported hardwoods for interiors and furniture which would heavily influence Mid-Century Modern designs. Plywood had first become a successful and durable product after the development of waterproof adhesive by Dr. Nevin in 1934, and within a few years the United States Plywood Corporation was establishing plywood as a strong, durable, and versatile architectural material. This is a salesman's sample catalogue filled with plywood sample leaves for architects, designers, and contractors. 9" x 9 1/2" x 1 1/2" plywood front and rear covers with a cloth covered spine, titles stamped in black on the front cover and spine, with a leather clasp for closure and to hold the catalogue intact. Before the World War II, plywood was primarily produced from Pacific Northwest Douglas Fir, but scientists in several companies had developed methods of using other softwoods and hardwoods which set off the plywood boom following World War II. These samples of Weldwood Plywood include veneers from such wood varieties as Avodire, Red Gum, Brazilian and East Indian Rosewood, American Sycamore, Bubinga, Zebrawood, Curly Maple, and many others which were employed in a wide range of interior architectural designs, furnishings, and more by Mid-Century designers. The United States Plywood Corp. was founded in 1937 in a consolidation of three smaller plywood companies, and by 1967 they merged with Champion Papers, Inc., and eventually changed their name to Champion International, later sold to UPM in 2000. [See: History of APA, Plywood, and Engineered Wood, Engineered Wood Association (2017)]. A small (1") ink or paint stain to mid-spine, else a fine, well-preserved example of a salesman's plywood sample binder.

Inventory Number: 43541