An onlay is an already cut or carved aesthetic piece which is added to a wood surface. Onlays are commonly used on cabinets, molding and other furniture. An onlay is a pre-cut element with a decorative function that is introduced to a wooden furniture surface. Onlays allow cabinetmakers or carpenters to construct design pieces at separate locations. This conserves the time that would otherwise have been spent constructing an inlay, which often needs to be carved using the hands and has a higher risk of damages to the furniture caused by the carver.

 

By using an onlay, a cabinetmaker can utilize several tools and even machinery without posing any risk on the furniture to be decorated. A lot of onlay designs are available, among the popular ones are shell and rosettes designs. Onlays can be constructed using materials that will make them match the finish of the room and can be purchased in different sizes. Onlays allow decorations to be added to furniture and cabinets even after they've been completed.