Finishing Small Objects Part 2

Last issue we looked at techniques of burnishing surfaces and using a mix of shellac, wax and pigments to create finishes with depth. In this article we’ll look at creating charred and painted surfaces and how these can be further treated for different effects.

Shou sugi ban

This is a Japanese technique of charring the surface of wooden buildings and then oiling it to make it stronger and more resistant to weather and fire. It hardens the surface and creates a very pleasing effect.

I have found this process works beautifully on small wooden objects. The feature of the grain comes through strongly after