In the video titled “One Of These Things Is Not Like The Other / Shou Sugi Ban Face Off,” Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft dives deep into the world of shou sugi ban, a fascinating wood treatment technique that has gained popularity for its unique aesthetic and protective qualities. Jodee addresses some common misconceptions and demonstrates two different methods for achieving this charred wood finish.

What is Shou Sugi Ban?
Shou sugi ban, also known as yakisugi, is a traditional Japanese method of preserving wood by charring it. The process involves applying heat and flame to the wood, resulting in a striking contrast between the dark charred surface and the lighter wood beneath. This technique not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the wood’s resistance to fire, pests, and decay.
Two Techniques Explored
Jodee sets out to compare two popular methods of achieving the shou sugi ban finish. He acknowledges that some viewers have commented that his original method involves too many steps and that a simpler approach could yield similar results. To address these concerns, Jodee prepares samples to demonstrate both techniques.
The Easy Way
For the first method, Jodee uses a low heat setting and burns the wood until it reaches a blackish-brown color. This approach is straightforward and requires minimal tools. However, Jodee does not sand or brush the wood after burning, which means there’s no additional texture to work with.
The Charcoal Method
In contrast, the second method involves burning the wood until it is nearly turned into charcoal. After this, Jodee brushes the charred wood with a drill brush, removing any loose char and revealing the intricate texture underneath. This method results in a more complex surface that interacts differently with stains.
Understanding Stain Absorption
To illustrate the differences between the two techniques, Jodee conducts a stain test. He applies various stains to both pieces of wood to see how they absorb and display color.
Stain Samples Tested
- Vintage Aqua: This stain reveals the hardwood grain peeking through the top layer.
- Minwax Cherry: Although it doesn’t show a strong cherry color, it still demonstrates how the grain interacts with the stain.
- Blue Dye Stain: Jodee notes that this stain absorbs differently, showcasing a unique look.
- Varathane Ebony: This stain allows the grain to emerge while providing a darker finish.
Comparing the Results
After allowing the stains to set, Jodee compares the two pieces side by side. The brushed piece displays a dynamic texture with valleys that the stain fills, while the flat piece showcases a more uniform surface.
Which Method is Better?
As Jodee wraps up his demonstration, he emphasizes that neither method is definitively better than the other; it ultimately depends on the desired look and application. He expresses his personal preference for the more involved method, noting that it provides a richer texture and depth. However, he acknowledges that many people enjoy the simplicity of the easier method and achieve great results with it.
Conclusion
Jodee thanks his viewers for watching and encourages them to experiment with both techniques to find what works best for their projects. Whether you prefer the quick approach or the more detailed method, shou sugi ban offers a beautiful way to enhance wood while adding character to your creations.