The Post-It Note Hack That Makes Applying Wood Veneer Easier

Buying quality wood furniture isn't always in the budget, which is why many homemakers turn to upcycling — and wood veneer is a popular way to give existing pieces a fresh, new look. The problem is, veneer strips can be fiddly to install, especially when you're working into tight corners and want a clean, flush cut. A recent viral video from Instagram user @beamishcreator demonstrates a smart, low-effort hack using nothing more than a sticky note, and it's racking up likes for good reason. By sticking a veneer strip to a Post-it note, the creator creates an instant corner template for precise trimming — a small tweak that makes a big difference when giving cabinets a wood grain finish.

You may be wondering: Why not just use a tape measure? Fair question. While a tape measure gives you a number, it doesn't give you a physical reference. In tight corners or tricky angles, numbers alone won't guarantee a clean result — especially when you're dealing with thin, flexible materials like wood veneer. This sticky note method creates a cut-to-fit "cheat sheet" that not only eliminates the need for making pencil marks, holding multiple tools at once, or eyeballing it — but also ensures perfect placement.

The result is a clean, precise cut that matches the exact length needed to fill the corner. No measuring tape or math required. This method is especially useful if you're working solo or in awkward spaces where traditional measuring tools fall short (or when you're simply in a hurry and don't feel like rooting around the garage for a tape measure). 

To begin, place a standard Post-it note flush in the inner corner of your piece of furniture, with the sticky edge at the top. Then, adhere part of the wood veneer strip directly to the Post-it. Once it's tacked in place, peel the note off the side of the furniture, bringing the attached veneer strip with it. Now that it's free from the surface, the Post-it acts as a MacGyver-style template. Because the rest of the veneer strip is pressed against the Post-it, you can just trim it flush with the bottom edge of the paper.

By attaching the veneer strip to the Post-it while it's in place, you're essentially building a temporary jig that travels with the piece and lets you cut it flush without measuring at all. It's faster, more intuitive, and often more accurate, especially if you're working by yourself and don't have an extra hand to hold the tape. This method isn't limited to Post-its either. You can use painter's tape, cardstock, or scrap paper in the same way — anything that provides a clean edge to cut against. So yes, a tape measure could work. But if you want a perfect fit on the first try, this low-tech method might just be your best bet. Given that the humble Post-it note can also keep track of tiny screws and help with cleanup when you're drilling, it might be worth keeping a stack of 'em in your toolbox. (Right next to your tape measure.)