GO AHEAD—YOU can replace that bad board in your weathered boathouse, deck, or shed without the new one looking like an obvious fix. Try these time-tested techniques to “age” new wood. Before you commit, test a sample first. And, fora more even finish, sand the end grain and any extra-rough patches where colourants will collect.
This story originally ran in our May ’12 issue
1 DARKEN WITH AN IRON WASH
Soak fine steel wool in vinegar, at least overnight. Strain and wipe the liquid on the wood. For dark woods rich in tannins, such as oak or red cedar, one application is often enough; you can water down the mix if needed. On light woods, boost the reaction by brushing first with strong tea.
2 GREY DOWN WITH PORTLAND CEMENT
Make a thin slurry of…
You're reading a preview of
Cottage Life (Digital) - 1 Issue, August 2024