Ebonised Oak Front Door

This project is a good example of ‘ebonised’ Oak. The process involves wiping down the bare Oak with a solution of wire wool dissolved in vinegar. This ferrous solution activates the tannins in the wood turning it a beautiful deep blue without the use of any pigments. When oiled it turns from blue to a pale black tone. This method of patination offers a very long-lasting monochromatic finish that will only improve with age. This is partly because the natural silvering of the Oak caused by weathering and UV exposure is much more even and gradual than that of un-ebonised Oak. Combined with a Linseed oil finish there is virtually no maintenance required unless silvering is not desired, in which case Linseed oil should be re-applied every few years. It is worth noting that oiling is far less labour intensive than painting, requiring no prior experience or skill.