What Is Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)?

Handmade Japanese Yakisugi is – due to mistranslation – mistakenly called Shou Sugi Ban in the West. This technique has been used for centuries in Japan and is becoming increasingly popular throughout the world. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)?

Shou Sugi Ban, also known as Yakisugi, is an architectural and decorative wood burning technique that has been used for centuries in Japan. This traditional Japanese wood preservation method involves voluntarily burning wood to create a beautiful textured surface and has practical benefits when done correctly.

The Shou Sugi Ban technique involves burning clean wood before cooling, brushing, washing and finally oiling to protect and strengthen the wood.

Shou Sugi Ban wood can be used on outdoor architectural elements such as siding, as well as interior walls and furniture. The aesthetic qualities of Shou Sugi Ban have in recent years inspired a revival of interest in the wood burning technique, which has become a prominent trend in architecture and interior design throughout the world.

The Origins of Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)

Shou Sugi Ban (or Yakisugi as it is called in Japan) means “burnt cedar”. This is an ingenious 18th century Japanese wood burning technique that creates an attractive charred appearance that highlights the natural grain of the wood, creating textural interest and shape that varies depending on the type of wood and the amount of fire used. type of wood used. (Japanese cypress is considered the gold standard for purists, although other woods can be used with varying degrees of success.)2
Yakisugi: Origin. Japan Furniture Association

While it may seem counterintuitive, burning wood does not make it structurally weaker, but magically has the opposite effect. Firing a wood surface under controlled conditions strengthens it and protects it from future damage, making it an excellent preservation method.3

The use of Shou Sugi Ban in traditional Japanese architecture predates the use of chemicals to protect wood siding. Achieving Shou Sugi Ban requires a process that involves carefully selecting clean wood, which is cut into planks, dried in the sun or in the open air, burned on the surface to create a thin layer of charcoal, then applied with a brush and oil. This process can be done manually by anyone from the DIYer to the DIY enthusiast, or using machines.

This centuries-old technique brings a fresh and modern touch to modern architecture. The distinctive look of deeply rich charcoal ebony has a subtle yet powerful look, instantly adding drama and interest to even the most minimalist structures and applications.

In recent years, the Shou Sugi Ban look has become so fashionable that it has inspired amazing experiments with charred wood. Dutch designer Maarten Baas is known for his Smoke line for luxury brand Moooi, which features a charred chair and a black wooden chandelier filled with clear epoxy resin. Inspired by Shu Sugi Ban, Baas and Dutch designer Piet Heijn Eek developed the Burnt Wood wallpaper for NLXL, which brings an approachable trompe l’oeil style to the look. And now on the market you can also find imitation Shou Sugi Ban panels made from treated (but not burnt), recycled (not new) wood.

Using Sho Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)
Partitions, fences, terraces, door or window frames on the outside of houses or other buildings.
Interior wall and ceiling panels
Outdoor furniture such as tables and chairs.
Home furniture such as chairs, tables, cabinets and cupboards.
Designer creations such as chandeliers and even jewelry.
Walls and panels create accents inside and outside
Burnt wood surface or roof
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Benefits of Show Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)
The material requires no or minimal maintenance.
The wood can be left with a patina over time or oiled periodically to maintain color.
Provides weather resistance and waterproofing.
Prevents mold and rotting of wood, increases strength and durability.
Protection against termites and other harmful insects 4
Has fire retardant properties
Increases the stability of wooden boards.
Does not require the use of chemicals
Promote sustainable development through the use of natural materials, despite the environmental impacts of wood burning and ash generation5.
Creating a textured surface adds interest to even the most minimalist or modest designs.
What is the Sugi Ban Show?
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Trials of Sho Sugi Ban (Yakisugi)
Although anyone can try it, the wood burning process requires patience and care.
This technique must be used on clear wood such as Japanese cypress wood.
Not all types of wood work successfully to achieve the desired effect.
Safety and proper use of materials such as torches are important considerations for DIYers.