Abstract: An overlay is saturated with resin and the resin is then partially cured. A resin coating is then applied to one surface of the paper overlay and the overlay is hot pressed apart from its substrate at temperatures and pressures to cure the resin. The resin treated laminate is then secured to the substrate at low temperatures and pressures. The high temperature and pressure curing conditions required for fully curing the resin and forming a high density surface do not result in the transfer of imperfections from the substrate to the surface of the overlay since such curing is accomplished apart from the substrate. Initial resin saturation of the overlay is of a selected percent by weight to accomplish the desired resin treatment as well as to provide a porous bonding surface to the substrate.