T-Molding or Edge Banding?

[codefenix]

I built my own upright cabinet about two years ago.  I've been pretty pleased with it so far, but now it seems to be calling out for me to do additional work on it.  At the time I just painted it black and didn't bother adding any side art or T-molding, and now I'm beginning to think T-molding would go a long way to enhance its appearance.  Then I searched the forums and noticed some posts about stick-on edge banding as a potential alternative to T-molding, but they don't really go into detail on how the two compare.

So I ask, does anyone have any experience using edge banding?  Would it be a suitable alternative to T-molding, or is it "lazy"?  I like the idea of avoiding routing out a groove if I can.  Also, can anyone recommend a good source for colored PVC edge banding?  All I can seem to find online is wood-grain veneer, and I'm thinking more along the lines of red or blue.

[Green Giant]

I built my own upright cabinet about two years ago.  I've been pretty pleased with it so far, but now it seems to be calling out for me to do additional work on it.  At the time I just painted it black and didn't bother adding any side art or T-molding, and now I'm beginning to think T-molding would go a long way to enhance its appearance.  Then I searched the forums and noticed some posts about stick-on edge banding as a potential alternative to T-molding, but they don't really go into detail on how the two compare.

So I ask, does anyone have any experience using edge banding?  Would it be a suitable alternative to T-molding, or is it "lazy"?  I like the idea of avoiding routing out a groove if I can.  Also, can anyone recommend a good source for colored PVC edge banding?  All I can seem to find online is wood-grain veneer, and I'm thinking more along the lines of red or blue.

Never seen edge banding, but I highly doubt you will find anything that comes close to t-molding in colors. 

I would recommend a colored t-molding.  That simple edition is one of the biggest improvements you can do to a cabinet with the least effort.

[TopJimmyCooks]

It's going to be easier to install t molding and more authentic.  I've done both.  PVC edge banding is available in a bunch of widths, thicknesses, and pre-glued/plain, etc. and any color of the rainbow.  However unless you go to a stocking dealer you're going to have to buy 250'.  Search for Canplast if you want to see the options for one manufacturer.  The PVC edge-banding is best installed using specialized equipment that glues and trims to exact width and length all in one step. 

Having done both, I would go t mold in a heartbeat.  The exception might be if you were going to have to do a lot of sharp 90 degree turns -those are harder with T.  Most cabs have few sharp corners to avoid this. 

[BobA]

Edge banding is not as arcadish (is that a word?) as t-molding.   The softer edge of the t-molding is easier on your hands and arms when you come in contact with it.  Edge banding makes it feel like part of a book shelf with a sharp edge.  If you want the looks and authenticity go for t-molding.  You can always get t-molding to fit curves and sharp edges with proper trimming of the inserted part of the T.

[mgb]

Go with t-molding. I'm assuming though that you didn't slot for t-molding.

[Crazy Cooter]

T-molding >> edge banding.

I've used both in commercial work and edge banding doesn't hold up as well and is harder to make look good (IMO).

[codefenix]

Looks like T-Molding is far and away the preferred option.  Thanks for all the feedback, guys.  I'll keep it in mind.

@mgb - Correct, I did not route out a slot.  I admit I was getting excited to play as my cab neared completion, so I just painted it and left well enough alone.  Rookie mistake.    

[TopJimmyCooks]

Cover the entire baseplate of your router with masking tape.  Then, you can rout your side panels with little danger of the router base marring your sides/art.