How To: Preserve Wood With Shou Sugi Ban

Shou Sugi Ban (焼杉板) is the process of charring wood to preserve it. Originating in Japan during the 18th century, it was a way to make cedar siding weatherproof. The technique has become popular in the West for its aesthetic appeal with the nifty side effect of protecting the wood for up to 50 years.

As a furniture builder, I love natural wood but wanted this planter to look more modern to better match the midcentury feel of our house and patio furniture.

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Step 1:

{Torch it}

Burn the wood Using a weed torch on a propane tank. keep the flame moving and char the wood until it “Alligators”.

Meaning, we want the surface to look like and alligators skin.

for smaller applications, a small propane torch would do the trick.

Step 2:

{Brush it}

Using a wire brush, scrape away the loose ash.

Brush along the grain for best results.

This reveals the texture of the wood.

Step 3:

{Wash It}

Rinse your boards with water until the water runs clear.

Step 4:

{Oil it}

Here’s where it starts to pop. Brush or roll on an oil-Based wood finish.

Oil Seals the wood, makes the charred wood shine, and keeps soot off your hands and clothes.

I used an awesome Outdoor Oil from Real Milk Paint Co.

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This planter turned out even better than I expected. I love the shousugiban finish and it’s only improved in looks over the past couple months of use. It’s a wonderful thing to have fresh herbs so close to the kitchen, as well as an interesting conversation piece for visitors dining with us on our balcony.

Check out the full build video below, and if you want to build your own, Plans are available for download on my online store.

Cheers!

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