How to Apply a Blackened Finish to a Wooden Side Table

A burnt wood finish can heat up your home’s style. Learn how to apply a blackened finish to a wooden side table in this Lowe’s video:

Because this finish requires a propane torch, make sure you’re in a fire-safe setting with water nearby, and be sure to wear protection for your hands and eyes. For a complete tools and materials list and project instructions, click here.

The process itself is actually really simple; you’re just charring the tabletop using a small propane torch. Work your way back and forth across the wood, using nice even strokes. The flame burns away the softer wood, revealing the hard wood grain and creating texture and interest.

When you’ve burned the entire surface, use a stiff wire brush to help reveal more grain and texture, and then sweep away the ash.

Flip the tabletop over and repeat the process on the other side. It’s important to try and get similar char levels on both sides to prevent warping and cracking.

You can repeat the process as many times as you like to creat the color and texture you prefer. If you like the unique scaling you get with the burn; just skip the brushing step on your final pass. When you’re satisfied, give the edges a light char with the torch, and then let the entire piece cool completely.

Add a light coat of stain to the edges and let dry. Then seal the entire thing with several coats of polyurethane for a truly one-of-a-kind result.