Replies

1. 
   northhouguy | Feb 03, 2009 06:46pm | #1

   Try coating with garrnet shellac.  Just some scarp first, or in a non-visible area.

   72 hours is a long time.  Where did you get the ammonia?  How old is it?  are you sure it is ammonia hydroxide, not household ammonia or "janitor's" ammonia.  What is the temperature?  Is your fuming tent tight? 

   If you have white oak, 29% ammonia a temperature above 70 degrees and a tight tent you should have a really dark patina by now.

   I've fumed a lot of small things, (picture frames, jewelry cases).  I'm getting ready to fume a blanket cheast, my largest fumed piece so far.  So, I'm very interested in your problem and the solution.  Please let me know about your success.  Thanks.

   Fred

1. 
   ElaJ | Feb 03, 2009 07:23pm | #2

   Hi, Fred,

   I've covered the piece with the sanding sealer. The ammonia is from chemical supplier, judging by the smell it's very fresh. I've done it in the small plastic snap box and sample pieces only. I'll try warmer temepature, thanks.

   Elizabeth

1. 
   northhouguy | Feb 03, 2009 08:52pm | #3

   You covered the piece with sealer before trying to fume?

   You have to fume the bare wood.  If not the ammonia won't be able to react with the tannin in the oak.

   Perhaps I am misunderstanding, but don't seal the wood first.

   Fred

1. 
   ElaJ | Feb 03, 2009 09:34pm | #4

   No...

   I've fumed the bare wood of course. Applying sealer didn't deepen the color too much

   Elizabeth

1. 
   northhouguy | Feb 04, 2009 12:14am | #5

   Well, I'm at a loss.  Most of the time I fume for 8 to 12 hours.  I get a deep color.  Then I cover it with garnet shellac.  That gives me a rich, brown color.

   Red oak will often turn green when fumed, but I haven't experienced the same with white oak. 

   I'm sorry I can't help you.  There aren't many of us "fumers" left.  I hope you will not give up and turn to roofing tar and polyurethane, (I once saw a finishing schedule using these items for a "fumed" finish...)

   Good luck.

   Fred

2. 
   ElaJ | Feb 05, 2009 07:44pm | #6

   Hi, Fred,

   Thanks for encouragement. I won't give up... I think. And only real, traditional way will do.

   All the best

   Elizabeth

3. 
   GLASTARZA | Feb 06, 2009 11:40pm | #7

   ElaJ,

   It sounds like you properly fumed the wood.

   After researching this problem, I found that many woodworkers will apply a dark wax after fuming. This will darken the wood. One brand is Bri Wax. Check: http://www.briwaxwoodcare.com/index.htm

   Sincerely,Gerald La StarzaFine Woodworking

4. 
   DougGF | Feb 08, 2009 06:18pm | #8

   After fuming I apply a wash coat of shellac, a dark wood grain filler, top coats and then Black Bison dark wax.DougEdited 2/8/2009 10:18 am ET by DougGF

   Edited 2/9/2009 11:20 am ET by DougGF