The Framers Forum

Hi,

I have been asked to to use an ash moulding to frame some fabric. As this is more of a natural wood, does it require finishing of any sorts? I was thinking of clear wax, but am not 100% sure.

Any advice will be appreciated.

Kathy

All you really need on ash/oak is a good waxing (clear wax). In the raw state it will gradually pick up dirt and fingermarks and look a bit manky. Wax will nicely seal the surface without altering the colour too much.
Give it a light sanding first and slightly round the edges off. Freshly milled Ash can have quite sharp edges.
If you use wirewool to apply the wax it will react with the solvent in the wax and the grain will be filled with blackish residue and the colour will shift to a more greyish tone. Which you may or may not want.

I use Liberon Black Bison wax in the Neutral shade. Their Clear shade has a yellowish tint to it.

Often wondered why the 'Clear' was yellow.

Ash also looks good with a colour wash. Paint on a dilute coat of virtually any pale colured paint (water based) and wipe off with a dishcloth. The 'hint of' type shades work well. The effect is very subtle. You can shift the tone toward pinky/bluey/greeny/whatevery without destroying the essential look. When it's dry (not long), clear wax it. White on it's own works very well.

Thanks, will use the clear wax for now, and then experiment with the water based paints - sounds like a different way to finish off, creating a unique look.

Much appreciated.
Kathy