Synopsis: Christopher Miano shares his method for shou sugi ban, an ancient Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring the surface. He’s used it with success on oak, cherry, and walnut. First he does several rounds of charring. Then he cools the wood, adds stain, and finishes with oil. A bronze butterfly key adds an extra touch.

---

In my studio I focus on traditional craft and techniques. Japanese joinery and construction have always inspired me, and through a process of trial and error I stumbled upon this method for my adaptation of shou sugi ban. Shou sugi ban is an ancient Japanese technique to preserve wood by charring the surface, creating a thin layer of carbon that protects the wood underneath in the same way that finish does. It was traditionally done on Japanese cedar, but I’ve used it with great success on oak, cherry, and walnut. My process…