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Cerused Oak: A Historical Technique Making Waves in Modern Design
Although many know that the term Cerused Oak has to do with a beautiful finish on furniture, this elegant technique has its roots in the cosmetic industry. Originally created using a white, lead-based powder, it was used in cosmetic facial powder by women between the 1500 to 1600’s to whiten their faces including Elizabeth the First, remember her snow white face? Once they realized how toxic the powder was for the skin it was banned in the cosmetic field but shortly after, the French discovered that it could be used to create a beautiful finish on wood with open pores such as oak. This finish has since been used throughout the decades to bring elegance and beauty to a variety of wood furniture and blended with a myriad of design styles.
This term is used to describe a unique finishing technique that showcases the beautiful wood grain without causing any damage to the wood itself. Ceruse was a white lead-based pigment, which after proving to be toxic to the skin was repurposed in the furniture industry. It has the ability to mute the original wood color while at the same time emphasize the texture of it’s grain. The results were amazing and have continued to be used in the design world. Cerused wood is available in multiple furniture styles, including headboards, tables, lamps and of course, cabinets both kitchen and bathroom. The best part is that the toxic lead ingredient has been removed, and now contains a liming wax which is a mix of clear wax, white liming paste and paint.
How Cerused Oak is Made.
Before the wood is ready to accept the finish, it must be prepped which is done either by removing the existing finish if it was previously done or sanding unfinished wood. The main trick to cerusing is the opening of the wood grain, this enables it to accept the color and is usually done using a wire brush. Once the wood is ready, the finish is applied such as a stain or dye. After the finish is done it is time to massage the ceruse into the wood grain ensuring that it is pushed evenly into the open pores of the wood. The final step is to apply a sealer. See a renovation project done with cerused oak.
Best wood types and finish options.
While this technique can be used on any wood that has a visible grain, some wood species are more suitable than others. Oak is the number one choice of wood when it comes to doing the cerused effect as it has heavy grain markings and very open pores. Another advantage to oak is how the wood is cross-cut, which highlights the grain motif even more; when the ceruse effect is added, the piece is completely transformed into something amazing. Mahogany is another large pored wood that can be used. Cerused woods are not limited to just the light finish, gray and black are also an option that can make for a beautiful statement piece in any room.
Walker Woodworking When space is limited, it is valuable and greater thought is invested in creating a design that maximizes square footage to provide a functional space for the homeowner. Both manufacturers and designers alike are continuously thinking of new ways to give their clients the things they need, but using less space. One such item is the Murphy bed, yes, the one used in multiple comedy routines, but it has evolved into a stylish piece, yet remains as functional as ever. It is also comparable in price point to a traditional bed. Could the Murphy bed be the solution to your limited space problem? Let’s unpack exactly what it is and how it can help give you additional room in your home.
Walker Woodworking What to do when you don’t have the luxury of square footage? How can you create storage when there is not a lot of room, to begin with? Can you make small spaces work for you? These are good questions that we have helped our clients answer numerous times. While it may present more challenges than a larger home, it is possible to have the necessary storage for you to keep everything you need on hand. Small is not bad; in fact, it comes with multiple benefits, and a good design can help you maximize the space you do have to build a home that is exactly right for you. Let’s talk about some creative storage solutions for small spaces.
Walker Woodworking We always say details matter, and that goes beyond a project. Your home is filled with details that tell your guests who you are and what matters to you. Artwork, pottery pieces, and furniture are just a few things that give homeowners a chance to show off their style. Another area is hosting, and tablescapes have become a beautiful, fun way to share your own unique design choices with family and friends. Whether it is for a small gathering to enjoy time with those you love or to celebrate a special occasion, there are many ways to create the perfect look. By combining different colors, patterns, or materials, you can create a tablescape that will dazzle your guests, whether you prefer an elaborate or simple design.
Greenbrook Design Window treatments have made an interesting journey through the years in interior design. From floor to ceiling and mere window length, they have travelled the full circle of style. Today, window treatments can come in a variety of forms and options, plus they do more than just block out the sun; they can finish the look of a room and add the necessary touch that brings out the homeowner’s personality. Windows are our connection to nature and are an essential part of the home, which means they deserve proper consideration and care. They are also an area of the room that naturally draws the eye of the homeowner and guest alike. Most of the time, however, windows tend to be overlooked.
Greenbrook Design There’s nothing quite like the warm weather and smell of blooming flowers that come with springtime. While you may have grown used to cozying up indoors during the colder months, now you can start spending more time tending to your garden, playing with your kids in the yard, and kicking back on the patio while enjoying the sun.
But in order to fully enjoy your time outside (and potentially save yourself from having to pay for expensive home repairs in the future), you will need to perform some basic home maintenance. To help you get started, here are some key areas to tackle this spring, brought to you by Greenbrook Design.
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