Shou Sugi Ban is the art of charring wood, primarily cedar, but in North America driftwood, cypress, and fir species are also used. An increasing trend in modern architecture, but a long-standing Japanese tradition, Shou Sugi Ban is the slight charring of wood that preserves and protects the wood and gives it a beautiful black color, while preserving the original graininess of the wood. This technique is becoming increasingly popular as it is extremely durable and can be used for exteriors, interiors, flooring, and more. The charring also protects the wood against insects, rot, and makes it fire-resistant.
Here are some of our favorite uses and designs of the beautiful Shou Sugi Ban method.
Exteriors
Interiors
Backyard Fencing
Furniture
Cabinetry
Indoor/Outdoor Planters
Retaining Walls
Make sure you have all the tools, materials, and information you need to do this safely and correctly. Otherwise hiring a professional to get your new Shou Sugi Ban – hassle free!
What you’ll need:
- Garden torch
- Table saw
- Wired brush
- Wood boards (obviously) – Cedar, driftwood, cypress, or fir generally
- Natural oil for finishing such as tung, linseed, or mineral oil
