Synopsis: John McAlevey ebonizes wood with a precipitate formed by mixing iron and vinegar. The mix is most effective on woods containing tannin, such as mahogany, oak, walnut, and cherry. He does all his shaping and other edge treatments before applying the stain. McAlevey rips up steel wool and puts it in ordinary vinegar, and lets the concoction sit for four or five days. The longer you let it sit, the richer the color. You can strain it if you’d like, and apply it with disposable foam brushes. Leave each coat on for 30 minutes, wipe off the excess, and allow to dry before sanding. Side information shows dramatic accents with ebonized finishes.

I first started using ebonized or black finishes several years ago when I needed a dramatic touch for a special piece of furniture I was designing. Inspired after seeing the exhibit “The Art That Is Life: The…