Woodworks by John
CGF II, Certified Grumble Framer Level 2
I recently completed a floater style frame using a material I'd like to share with you! Roasted Oak is lumber that has been placed in a kiln for an extended period of time and essentially, what happens is that the sap and sugar caramelizes and the entire piece becomes a dark, chocolate brown. I've ebonized Oak and that only colors a very thin layer but this goes throughout the board. This process can be done with other species of wood as well, I've used Poplar in the past and understand Maple is also treated this way (smells like maple syrup when cut).
Here are some pictures and a link to the blog I wrote about it: Roasted Oak Floater Frame http://woodworksbyjohn.com/2021/03/01/__trashed/
Something to note if you try it for your work, I was told that you need a polyurethane glue so used Gorilla Glue which I did. I wet sand the finish with the same oil I use for my furniture work and the slurry is dark and could potentially affect any contrasting woods you may have on your frame. Sometimes I'll add a splined key to the corners of the frame for strength and contrast. The way I make my floater frames isn't a simple L-shaped molding but you can see that in my blog.
In any case, if you make your own frames and someone needs a black material with character, Roasted Oak may be just what you need! The painting is by Diane Eugster and the size is 24" x 30".
Here are some pictures and a link to the blog I wrote about it: Roasted Oak Floater Frame http://woodworksbyjohn.com/2021/03/01/__trashed/
Something to note if you try it for your work, I was told that you need a polyurethane glue so used Gorilla Glue which I did. I wet sand the finish with the same oil I use for my furniture work and the slurry is dark and could potentially affect any contrasting woods you may have on your frame. Sometimes I'll add a splined key to the corners of the frame for strength and contrast. The way I make my floater frames isn't a simple L-shaped molding but you can see that in my blog.
In any case, if you make your own frames and someone needs a black material with character, Roasted Oak may be just what you need! The painting is by Diane Eugster and the size is 24" x 30".