How to Burn and Paint Wood: Japanese Technique Aka Shou Sugi Ban! 2026

How to Burn and Paint Wood: Japanese Technique Aka Shou Sugi Ban, is a Japanese technique, dating back to the 18th century, to preserve wood. The process is designed specifically for cedar, but works on many wood species, including cypress, ash, oak, maple, and of course pine, like I used to. The wood is burned and this preserves the wood by making it resistant to sunlight, water and fire. Another benefit is how beautiful the process is. It can enhance and highlight the grain in ways that other finishes cannot. When I first researched this process, I found photos of Shou Sugi Ban and wood combined with brightly colored stains. I got tired of figuring out how it was done, but it seems to be a process that is not easily shared. I decided to create my own process that I am sharing with all of you.

Materials used:

• Propane torch
• Minwax water-based stain
• Sanding pads
• Sanding block
• Minwax

Step 1: Burn!

This technique can be accomplished with smaller torches, but I recommend using a large propane torch as shown in the image. This will allow for a faster and more even burn. You'll have much more control, and you'll avoid that "spotty" look you get with a smaller flashlight.

It is important to test some test pieces before burning them to project wood. Boards will have different grain patterns and different moisture contents. This affects burning. Notice in the photos above the difference in grain pattern of the first two boards vs. the second two. The grain is wider and longer on the first boards. Burning characters burn much faster, and the end result is not as good as the tighter grain pattern in the second set of boards.
Hold the torch 12-18 inches above the wood while burning. To me, it looks like you are painting with fire, and you have to "brush" the charcoal as such. You'll see what I'm talking about when you try it, I promise.

Step 2: Surface Preparation

Once the wood cools, it's time to prepare it.

Using a wire brush, gently scrape the top surface of the wood to break up soot and ash. Do not break the wood as this will leave visible lines.
For a heavier char as seen in the second photo you can be a little more aggressive with wire brushing to remove the top layer of ash.
Clean the wood until you have removed as much soot as you can. Using an air compressor then helps remove anything left behind.

Step 3: Paint the wood!

Minwax has a clear water-based stain that will blend into colors. There are specific colors mentioned in the brochure.

Be sure not to work in too large an area. It is important to be able to clean the stain before it forms too much.
Brusha coat of dye and then dry again after 5-10 seconds. Apply more or fewer coats depending on your preferences.

Step 4: Sanding and finishing

A technique that actually makes stains sanded with 220 grit sandpaper in areas where you want to extract some of the natural wood look. The ideal place is to find where the grain bends in the wood.
Sand these spots lightly to remove the natural wood so it has the natural black paint contrast. This is difficult to achieve. Experiment with sanding to get the grain to your liking. Just remember to have a light touch.
Apply several coats of wipe over polyester to finish. This really makes the grain and colors pop.

Step 5: Shou Sugi Ban (Burnt Cedar Planks)

These are the other projects I made using this process. We hope you liked it! Greetings!

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