The evening was a demonstration by Chris Harkin and was based on a textured and coloured vase that was shown on our stand at WoodWorks. The demonstration did include the basic turning of the vase but the main focus was on the texturing and colouring.
The vase was first scorched using a blow torch but this was not demonstrated here because of hall restrictions. When using a blow torch at home be very aware of the safety aspect of using a flame in the workshop, or better still do it outside. There are varying degrees of scorch which Chris designated as “toast”, “roast” and “barbeque”.
Once scorched the burnt bit needs to be brushed down which can be done with a brass brush or preferably a rotary nylon brush.
The vase was then coloured using basic poster paints which can be mixed to produce whatever colour you want. This is painted onto the vase then immediately wiped off so that the grain pattern shows through the colour.
The last operation was to lacquer or wax the vase, whichever is your preference.