A method of manufacturing a timber composite (7) is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of applying adhesive to one or more timber layers (23-226), applying pressure to the one or more timber layers, and heating the timber layers. The adhesive penetrates into the one or more timber layers and cures to form the timber composite (7). One or more spacers (332) may be positioned between the timber layers. The invention also related to timber composite (7) obtainable by such method and to decorative panels (1) comprising such timber composite (7) as a top layer.