Shou sugi ban is a Japanese term that means “charred cedar board.” It is one of Kev’s favourite techniques, and we’re sure you’ll agree that the results look amazing, whether on our door wedges, trays or tea-light holders. For anyone who’d like to give it a try, here are some tips. Just beware that you’ll need patience! It’s not something that can be rushed.
Shou sugi ban involves charring wood, then burnishing the burnt wood with wire brushes and sandpaper before sealing it. Also known as yakisugi, this ancient Japanese technique produces wood that is resistant to the elements, and is ironically, fire retardant.
The process has the affect of removing surface impurities, but also revealing the true grain of the wood and creating a three dimensional, tactile effect.
Source your wood
Look for an interesting grain in the wood. Often cheaper wood which has been plain sawn is the best. This is typically used to build pallets. More expensive quarter sawn wood is not really suitable. For an in depth description of wood grains click here.
Burn the surface of the wood
Do not be afraid to really char the wood surface, which prepares it for the next step but also removes any impurities.
Remove the outer char
The charred surface needs to be removed with either a wire brush, or with a drill-mounted nylon brush. This will preferentially remove the softer grain resulting in the 3D effect you are looking for. Note that this is very messy and you should always wear a sealed breathing mask while doing this. You should also only wear old clothes as the charred dust gets everywhere!
When all the surface debris has been removed vacuum the surface clean or use an old paint brush to clean the wood as much as possible before the final step.
Apply a finish, either oil or wood-dye
The final piece can be left as is, oiled with special wood oil, or stained with a wood dye. The choice is entirely yours.
When using wood dye, apply very lightly with a brush (foam is best) and then rub with a cloth while still damp. This ensures an even coverage and also highlights the grain of the wood more visibly. An optional varnish can then be applied depending on the intended purpose of the wood.
