Essex Board
Essex Board is a highly compacted sheet material made from compressed paper fibres, offering a strong, lightweight alternative to plywood or MDF. It’s smooth on both sides, easy to cut, and ideal for everything from pelmets and edge trims to model making and general DIY.
What is Essex Board?
This board is a highly compacted product, made from multiple layers of recycled paper, pressed together to form a dense, rigid sheet. It’s tough enough for trims and panel work, but light enough to shape with a Stanley knife or craft knife, no need for heavy tools or powered saws. If you’ve worked with hardboard before, Essex Board gives you a similar feel but is lighter, easier to handle, and more compact. It’s smooth, doesn’t splinter, and takes a clean cut every time.
Key Features
Because it’s made from compacted paper rather than wood shavings or fibres, the sheet holds its shape under pressure and is less prone to chipping.
- 4mm thick
- 2845gsm weight
- 1220mm x 2440mm but variable to requirements
- Smooth finish on both faces
- Sold bulked-packed on pallets
Looking for something more compact than plywood? Essex Board gives you rigidity without the bulk.
How to Use Essex Board
Popular uses include:
- Pelmets and cabinet trims
- Shaping with a Stanley or craft knife
- Backing panels or linings
- Model and pattern making
- Light joinery or display boards
It’s easy to cut, sand, or glue, and doesn’t need specialist tools. Perfect for DIYers, shopfitters, and furniture makers who need a tidy finish without the weight.
Essex Board vs Plywood
- Lighter than plywood
- Easier to work, no saw needed
- More compact, less bulk, same result
- Smoother finish ideal for trim work
If you’re after a smart, manageable board that cuts clean, Essex Board is a solid pick.
We sell Essex Board on pallets. Stock moves quickly, so whether you’re buying for DIY or manufacturing use, order now to keep your build on track. Need advice? Call us or email, we’re happy to help you get the right spec.