Simple Decorative Techniques
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- This topic has 26 replies, 12 voices, and was last updated 10 years, 5 months ago by Greg Merritt.
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16 November 2013 at 9:24 pm #21588
I like simple techniques that can be done with a minimum of tools or supplies. A good example is Paul’s poor mans beading tool. One that I have found is a simple stamping tool made from a scrap of steel and filed to create a pattern that can be stamped into wood to create a visual depth. Another that I like to use is a simplified kolrosing technique. You simply incise lines into the wood with a sharp knife and then rub powdered coffee into those lines. I’ve included photos of a simulated drawer front to demonstrate. Its not my neatest work but demonstrates the concepts. I’ve also included a couple of photos of projects where I employed these techniques as well.
If you know of other decorative techniques please share them.Attachments:
You must be logged in to view attached files.17 November 2013 at 1:51 am #21599Really like the concept of the kolrosing technique. Almost anything you can draw is possible.
17 November 2013 at 4:30 am #21603Thanks Steve. Just throwing some things out there that I find useful and that everyone can do.
Thanks for sharing this Greg. The stamping tool reminds me of those used to create similar patterns on leather. That might be an avenue worth exploring.
On the kolrosing technique, is it coffee grounds or instant coffee you use? Does it need any special care in applying a finish over the top?
Thanks, Martin
17 November 2013 at 1:50 pm #21623Hey Greg, can you elaborate a bit on the “powdered coffee”? Is that instant coffee? or is there something I am missing here? Thanks
17 November 2013 at 2:17 pm #21627Ok…you can use just about anything dry and powdery to darken the lines. I’ve used oil as a finish and also have used shellac with no issues.
I just did the following sample in my kitchen then wiped it down with walnut oil.
From left to right:
coffee, instant coffee, tea, cinnamonAttachments:
You must be logged in to view attached files.18 November 2013 at 5:00 am #21690Your welcome Steve. Let me know what you think. Its one of those things that can comes in handy once in a while.
18 November 2013 at 4:01 pm #21717Thanks for good idea Greg.I’m looking forward using it my running project))
18 November 2013 at 6:53 pm #21735Thanks everyone. Glad that you may find it useful.
Denise @deniseg …all was done with a utility knife, its the same knife that I use for my joinery layout. Yes, you can very the line with the depth of the cut. Just experiment on a piece of scrap you will get the feel for it very quickly.
The nice thing about using a dry powdery substance, like coffee, tea or cinnamon, is that you don’t effect the color of the wood. You can also darken the lines as you go to see if you have missed anything.
Enjoy!
PS…feel free to post photos here of samples so we can all learn from them. -
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