Fuming

[Jonkou]

Started in another thread but will continue here. Using extra strength ammonia on black locust and cherry. I know cherry doesn’t have much tannin but should lose its pink. Blk locust should get dark and will keep it going until it doesn’t change on the daily inspection.

Initial start sanded to 600



After 24 hours



After 48 hours



After 72 hrs there is no discernible difference so pulled them out to off gas for a few hrs

 

[trc65]

I do love fumed black locust. Really like the green tone that comes forward, but I think it looks even better with some age as the green fades and it picks up a deep orange-brown color.

 

[vegas urban lumber]

seems like the cherry is resisting change

 

[Alancw]

Cool pictures. I bought some industrial strength ammonia and am working on a red oak hollow form that I will fume if I finish it. Ridiculous tearout in my piece.

 

[Jonkou]

A comparison against where they started from. Can see a big difference on the locust, cherry not so much…



Before and after, first coat of oil really makes them both pop. Will look much better when finished with the oil, wax and polish.




Cherry really darkened with the oil, looks like a well aged finish.




Calling this a success and will definitely do it again. If you want to try the only drawback is the noxious vapors from the ammonia. Recommend work outside with the proper cartridge on the respirator, rubber gloves and eye protection.

 

[Jonkou]

Here they are completed

 

[Steve in VA]

The locust speaks for itself. I agree with you in that the cherry looks to have the aged patina that develops over time right out of the box. Great experiment!