Good art is expressive, unbounded and can be integrated to any setting regardless of its style and time. The timeless value of art is the reason barnwood carpentry and interior décor has grown from barn boards in recent times. Going through rough heaps of old wood in search of reclaimable pieces is the first step towards getting that rusticity look in building exteriors, offices and stores. Conversely, having a barnwood vanity for your make-up and hair space requires a reclaiming, remodeling and unique furnishing that still retains the wood’s ‘age’ to bring out a ‘relic’ appeal.
The making of a barnwood vanity begins in the barn. The wood to be used needs to be reclaimed from barn board relics. Prior to preparations and design, barn boards are sorted from weathered and stronger to form the reclaimed barn siding. This can be gotten from architectural salvage companies and reclaimed lumbers. Central to the beauty of reclaimed barn siding is the pattern-like imagery portrayed on the wood’s texture made by the aging colors. Sorting out to get the right siding, lumbers depend heavily on the displayed wood furrowing. Furrowing helps lumbers note the barn board’s age whereby deep furrows and thin boards are characterized with older and weathered boards. Most carpenters prefer using thick boards with narrow furrows because of their toughness and durability.
Before cutting, this board goes through a preparation process that eliminates dirt, loose paint and wood on its surface with compressed air and stiff brushes. The clean board is then chopped and ripped while removing nails and any other installation to prevent damage or harm to the end customer. The barn board is then cut to give more consistent and joined pieces that can be used in making of a vanity. Cutting while maintaining the knots, nail holes and ghosting on the board’s surface is essential to note. By retaining these marks, designers are able to curve out a surface that has the rustic and natural appearance. Alternatively, designers buy de-nailed barn boards with vertical siding that is kiln-dried. If the wood comes with a smell, you can have it washed before drying. Kiln-drying eliminates any insects within that can ‘eat’ away your boards.
The ready wood is then used as per measurements. Nailing should be gentle if not done using a nail gun to prevent widening the furrows, which will cause cracking hence weaken the vanity. The final finishing or polishing of your vanish depends on your taste and preference. Keeping the antique and rusticity look will make it more appealing. Conversely, polishing to cover these marks with a solid finish would make it easier for cleaning and maintenance. To clean it as good as new wood, use a shellac or lacquer. To retain the rusty look on your barnwood vanity, go with a less oily vanish to neatly set up your make-up desk.
