| Ebonized Wood-Finish |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-708 |
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Q: I want to create an ebonized finish for my entertainment center. Can you show me how? A: (Bruce Johnson, DIY antiques and woodworking expert) The ebonized wood-finish (figure A) is heavily associated with the arts and crafts era of furniture design, and is very attractive. The challenge is creating the darkly pigmented finish in a way that will still allow the pattern of the wood grain to show through. There are a number of different techniques that are used. Here are a few of them. Tip: Since these techniques involve some trial and error, test them on sample board before using one on your actual piece of furniture. You'll want to use a sample of wood that matches that of the piece you'll be finishing.
- One technique is to apply black latex or oil paint that is diluted with a small amount of water. By thinning the paint in a container with some water, you create a solution that may give you the degree of darkening you want while still letting the grain show (figure B). Experiment with different ratios of paint to water to get the effect you desire.
- Another technique is to use a dark, oil-based stain. Make certain that the stain is thoroughly stirred before applying. If the stain is dark enough, it may provide an ebony-like look on some types of wood (figure C).
- A third option is to use an aniline dye. These highly concentrated dyes are less common than paints or stains, but you can get them from mail-order firms or leather shops. These typically need to be diluted with a compatible solvent such as lacquer thinner. When applied using a rag or brush, aniline dyes provide a very dark finish (figure D).
- The final option is to use the actual technique that was used to create ebonized finishes during the arts and crafts era -- by darkening the wood with the fumes emitted by 28-percent ammonia. When oak is placed in a sealed, airtight container with a dish of this highly concentrated ammonia, the fumes react with the natural tannins in the wood and cause it to take on a dark shade. It takes about 2 to 3 days for this technique to take effect. Obviously, this technique is less practical if you're finishing a large, already-assembled piece of furniture.
- Safety Alert: If you decide to use the ammonia technique, follow proper safety precautions and wear eye protection and a respirator. The fumes can be quite noxious.
RESOURCES :
The Weekend Refinisher:
How to Make the Most of Your Furniture-A Step-by-Step Guide
Author: Bruce E. Johnson
Publisher: Ballantine Books
ISBN: 034535866X
The Wood Finisher: How to Finish Everything, From Decks to Floors to Doors
Author: Bruce Johnson
ISBN: 0345372972
Ballantine Books
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