Aging Timber Techniques

[Chipchopper]

I'm looking at ways to artificially age timber (oak in particular) using easily available materials that come to hand.

T I A

[The Builder]

For an authentic look, Chippers, less is more... as they say. Softening the corners and edges with sandpaper is a good start. Maybe create some "wear spots" by sanding well into the timber in places. Always finish with fine paper or wire wool to get a smooth, worn feel. It should feel as though it's had years of wear......... not just the appearance.

To camouflage the newness of the timber, particularly if it's been sawn, experiment with various coloured Beeswaxes. Black, or any dark colour is very good for adding "grime".

Put it on sparingly though. Use wire wool if you have it. You then get the colouration plus a bit of wear as well.

Another one is "liming". You can get liming paste, but a coat of diluted water-based undercoat or emulsion will do it. When it's dry, run an electric sander all over it. The "lime" should stay in the grain.

The fun is in using your own imagination and experimenting.

[Chipchopper]

Thank's Builder, as usual some good ideas and advice for me to consider!.

It's a 5ft piece of new, oak sleeper I'm working on, to go above a wood burning stove.
It has a wainy edge on one side where the bark once was, which I've decided to retain as a feature.
I know what you mean, now about "less is more, so easy to get carried away and do too much!
I've got as far as sanding it down to take out the modern saw marks, spoke shaved the edges and corners, prior to sanding, to simulate wear, and I must admit, it's looking good.

I've tried a few, test areas underneath and will probably go down the lime route to bring out the grain.

Thank's again-
Chip

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Careful use of a blowlamp can create interesting effects when sanded.