Cosmetically aging wood

[hedgeapple]

I have some old barn lumber that I'd like to use for a few projects.  Problem is when I cut the boards then I have a "new" looking edge.  Do you guys know in tricks to give the edge cut the old, weathered look?

[robby]

hedgeapple, This stuff gives color to just about any wood I have tried it on and it seem the older the wood the more aged it looks. It is not really a stain, but a re-agent that actually changes the color of the wood itself. Just follow instructions!!
.trackofthewolf.
Robby

[hedgeapple]

Thanks Robby

[aaron]

add one or two steel wool pads to white vinegar. wait one week. apply to wood and expose to sunlight. this will turn most woods grey. for a darker color, pre soak the wood in tea.

[hedgeapple]

Aaron, thanks for the mixture recipe.  Have you ever tried storing it for long periods?

[Carson (CMB)]

I use aarons vinegar and steel wool recipe all the time, on osage bows, fir shafts, and bow racks.  It ages the wood right in front of your eyes.    My batches have taken a little more than two weeks to dissolve, with household vinegar. 

[aaron]

hedgeapple, yes it stores fine. I keep some in a jug and just replenish the two ingrediants as it gets used.

[Adam]

How much vinegar do you guys use to dissolve 2 steel wool pads?

[stickbender]

     There is also a bleaching oil, that is used to turn cedar siding to a weathered grey look.  Try those recipes, on a sample of the wood you have, see how it turns out.  Sounds like the ticket.

                                                                Wayne

[hedgeapple]

Thanks guys.

[aaron]

adam- oops forgot to mention the volume of vinegar. I use two pads of steel wool in about 1/2 gal vinegar. It's kinda a trial and error thing, the ratio can be changed.

[Adam]

aaron - thanks for the info!  I need to give that a try.

[Carson (CMB)]

I added some extremely rusty bits of metal to one of my vinegar steel wool mixes, and it now makes a super dark stain, almost black. 

[hedgeapple]

One more question: do you seal the jar of vinegar and steel wool?

[Thesquirrelslinger]

One more question: do you seal the jar of vinegar and steel wool?

I have never made this finish(but have some brewing in the garage)but I will say this-
vinegar + steel = hydrogen gas
Not a lot but it could result in a pressure buildup.