Shou Sugi Ban, or Yakisugi, is an ancient Japanese wood-burning technique that has become popular worldwide for its striking aesthetic, natural weather resistance, and durability. Today, we’re going to take you through our step-by-step process of creating Shou Sugi Ban fencing panels, from selecting the wood to the final assembly.
Watch our video here to see the full process in action!
What Is Shou Sugi Ban?
Shou Sugi Ban involves charring wood surfaces with fire, a process that preserves the wood and enhances its beauty. By burning the surface, we create a natural, protective layer that resists rot, pests, and the effects of weather, while highlighting the wood’s unique grain patterns.
Our Process of Making Shou Sugi Ban Fencing Panels
1. Choosing the Wood
We begin with selecting high-quality wood, Siberian Larch which is ideal for Shou Sugi Ban because of its natural oils and resilience. Siberian Larch provides a smooth, even burn and handles the outdoor elements well, making it a perfect choice for fencing panels.
2. Preparation & Safety Measures
Before beginning, we ensure we have a safe setup and the necessary protective gear. We lay the planks on a fire-safe surface to control the charring process and prevent any accidental fires. Fire-resistant gloves, goggles, and masks are essential, as working with open flames can be dangerous.
3. Charring the Wood
Using a propane torch, we char each wood plank. This is the most visually exciting part of the process, as the flames darken the wood, bringing out the natural grain. The key to charring evenly is steady, controlled passes over each plank, allowing the flame to bring out a deep black finish that penetrates the top layer.
4. Brushing and Cleaning
After the wood is charred, the surface is coated in soot. We use a stiff-bristle brush to gently remove the soot, revealing the intricate texture of the grain underneath. This step is crucial for both aesthetics and preparing the wood for oiling.
5. Applying Natural Oil
Next, we apply a natural oil, like tung or linseed oil, to seal and protect the wood. The oil adds richness to the color, enhances the grain’s appearance, and provides an extra layer of weatherproofing, making it even more durable for outdoor use.
6. Assembling the Panels
Once each plank is finished, we assemble them to create the final fencing panels. Each panel showcases the unique beauty of Shou Sugi Ban with its blackened, textured wood grain and offers a bold, modern aesthetic that’s perfect for outdoor spaces.
Why Choose Shou Sugi Ban for Fencing?
Beyond its stunning look, Shou Sugi Ban is an environmentally friendly option for wood preservation that doesn’t require synthetic chemicals. The natural charring process offers years of durability, protecting the wood from rot and pests.
Conclusion
Creating Shou Sugi Ban fencing panels is a labor-intensive but incredibly rewarding process. It combines traditional craftsmanship with natural beauty, resulting in a product that’s both timeless and modern.
If you’re interested in seeing the process in action, check out our video: Watch on YouTube
