How to Get a Burnt Wood Finish

As counterintuitive as it sounds, burning wood not only helps to protect and preserve it, but it also gives it a unique and stunning appearance. Creating a burnt wood finish—also called Shou Sugi Ban or Yakisugi—is a centuries-old Japanese practice with a wide range of interior and exterior applications. Whether you want to transform a single piece of furniture or an entire wall into an aesthetic focal point, adding a burnt wood finish will contribute a level of depth and character that can't be obtained with any other finishing technique.

Before You Begin

The type of wood, torch, and brush you use will impact the appearance of your final product, and the amount of work involved.

Softwoods like cedar, pine, and cypress are the wood of choice for a burnt wood finish. Hardwoods like oak and cherry can also be used, but they won’t achieve the same texture and color contrasts typically associated with a burnt wood finish. Regardless of the wood you use, boards with wide grains and several knots make the most striking appearance when burned.

The propane torch you use can either be a handheld plumber’s torch or a larger weed torch (aka roofer’s torch). A weed torch provides great control and coverage, but it can potentially excessively char the wood. The torch and compatible propane cylinder are also more expensive to purchase. A plumber’s torch is the most affordable option, but it doesn't provide the same level of coverage or control as a weed torch. The best type of torch for you will largely depend on your budget and time constraints.

The two most commonly used brushes are the stiff-bristle nylon brush and wire brush. A wire brush will remove char and soot faster than a nylon brush, but can leave behind large scratches (tool marks) on the wood’s surface. Although that may sound undesirable, these tool marks can add extra character to rustic design projects.

Safety Considerations

Naturally, applying an open fire to a flammable object like wood carries an inherent risk of starting a fire. Keep the following items nearby for the duration of the burn:

• Spray bottle filled with water for small flare-ups
• Garden hose or five-gallon bucket filled with water to dowse large flare-ups
• Fire extinguisher 

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is also important to prevent burns. Suggested PPE includes:

• Work gloves: Any work gloves will do, just as long as they don’t contain any nitrile that can melt when exposed to high temperatures. Thicker gloves will offer the highest level of protection, but often at the cost of reduced manual dexterity.
• Safety glasses: Knots in the wood can contain sap that may bubble and pop into your eyes when exposed to an open flame.
• Face mask: It’s recommended to use a dust mask or respirator when brushing the wood to keep the ash and char from entering your lungs.

Finally, only perform this process in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes. Working outdoors or in a garage with the garage door open is best.