The Japanese craft of Yakisugi is called Shou Sugi Ban in the West. This technique has been used in Japan for centuries and is now becoming more and more popular all over the world.
Shou Sugi Ban, also known as Yakisugi, is a special method of wood burning that has been used in Japan for centuries. This traditional Japanese method of “preserving” wood creates a beautiful-looking textured surface that also offers practical advantages if done correctly. It can be used to make outdoor architectural elements such as siding or fences, as well as indoor walls and furniture. The aesthetic qualities of Shou Sugi Ban have in recent years revived interest in the woodburning technique, which has become a prominent trend in architecture and interior design around the world.
The Origin Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)
Shou Sugi Ban (or as it is called in Japan, Yakisugi) means “burnt cedar”. This is an ingenious 18th century Japanese wood burning technique which creates a charred look that highlights the natural grain of the wood and gives an impressing texture. This texture and it’s varies depending on the wood used and how strongly it is burned. By the way, Japanese cypress is considered to be the gold standard, other types of wood can also touch in, but they must meet a certain degree of burning.
Although it may seem opposite, charring wood does not make it structurally weaker or more brittle. Burning the surface of the wood under controlled conditions strengthens and protects against future damage, making it an excellent wood “preserving” technique. Shou Sugi Ban was used in traditional Japanese architecture long time before the use of paints, oils or other wood protecting chemicals.
Shou Sugi Ban involves the entire process of selecting raw wood that is cut into boards, dried in the sun or open air, burned to form a thin layer of charcoal, then brushed and coated with oil. This process can be done manually also automatically.
This old technique gives a fresh and contemporary edge for modern architecture. The distinctive look of deeply charred wood instantly adds drama and interest even to the most minimalist structures.
In recent years, the Shou Sugi Ban technique has become so popular that it has inspired designers to experiment with charred wood. Famous Dutch designer Maarten Baas is known for the luxury brand Moooi’s Smoke series, which includes a charcoal armchair, dining chairs and a blackened wooden chandelier.
The Usage Of Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)
- Sidings, fences, terraces, door or window frames
- Interior wall and ceiling decoration
- Outdoor furniture
- Indoor furniture such as chairs, tables, dressers and cabinets
- Designer pieces like chandeliers and even jewellery
- Interior and exterior accent walls and panels
The Advantages Of Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi):
- Low-maintenance material;
- The wood can be left as is to develop a natural coating over the time from the environment or be oiled periodically to maintain its colour and look;
- It is waterproof and sun damage resistant;
- Protects against mold and wood rot, increases durability and longevity;
- Protects against termite and other insect infestations;
- It is more fire resistant than ordinary wood;
- Increases stability of wood;
- No need to use chemicals;
- Promotes sustainability through the usage of natural and longterm materials (although burning the wood has a negative impact on the environment);
- Creates a texture that gives distinction to even the most minimalist or modest structures
Challenges For The Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi) Technique
- Anyone can try the Shou Sugi Ban technique, even at home, but the process of charring wood requires patience and diligence. In addition, there are special safety issues when working with fire.
- Only clean wood can be used;
- Not all types of wood are suitable for achieving good results and desired look.
