What Is Cerused Wood?

Cerusing is a wood finishing technique that emphasizes the natural character of grain in wood. This is also called a “limed finish” because of the white liming wax or diluted paint used in modern cerusing techniques. A cerused wood finish mutes the original color of the wood and greatly emphasizes the wood’s natural grain and texture. It’s used in a variety of applications such as furniture, chests, cabinets, cabinetry, and even light fixtures.

But how did cerused wood even begin? It actually began hundreds of years ago! Ceruse is a white lead-based pigment first used in 16th century Europe. It was originally used in cosmetics as a skin whitener. However, this was found to be toxic due to its lead content and was banned from cosmetic use. Craftsmen then later repurposed ceruse for use in wood as a way to preserve it and prevent rot.

Using cerused wood has fallen in and out of favor over the years, but it’s made a comeback. Its muted, yet unique, look lends itself well to more contemporary styles. It can be used on unfinished, stained, or even painted wood. This allows for a wide range of options in designs, and maybe one just perfect for your home.

HOW DO YOU CERUSE WOOD?

The question now is, “how is cerusing even done?” It’s certainly a technique that can be done on your own, but it would entail quite a lot of work. There are 4 main steps:

1. Prepare the Surface. The first step is preparing the wood to be cerused. Any previous paint or stain has to be removed. If it’s unfinished, it will need to be sanded. After that is the main trick of the process –opening the wood grain. This is done by scraping along the direction of the grain with a wire brush. How much and how hard you scrape determines how much the grain will stand out later on. It also affects how distressed the wood will look.

2. Apply the Base. After this preparation stage, you can apply the paint or stain you want for your wood furniture or cabinet. Note that bare or stained wood would usually result in a more dramatic cerusing effect later on.

3. Apply the Ceruse. The cerusing material, which is either diluted paint or liming wax, can then be applied. The material is massaged into the open pores of the wood grain.

4. Wait. After the surface dries, you are more or less done cerusing the wood! Be sure to allow your surface to dry under favorable conditions. This means a relatively low humidity, plenty of air movement, and warm temperatures. Otherwise, you will have to extend the drying and curing time. In general, you can handle the surface after 24-36 hours, however a full cure can take up to 5 days.

WHAT WOOD CAN BE CERUSED?

Oak is the most common wood for cerusing. When searching for cerused wood, often it’s interchanged with cerused oak or limed oak. That’s how often it’s used for this technique! Oak is favored due to its distinct heavy grain and very open pores. It takes the cerusing material well, highlighting its beautiful grain pattern. While almost all wood can be cerused, it’s best applied on ring-porous wood species with visible grain. Examples of these are:

• Red and White Oak

• Ash

• Elm

• Mahogany

Aside from choosing a porous wood species that can take the colors well, the sawing method also makes a huge difference. Plain-sawn wood exhibits a dramatic “flame-like” pattern. This makes each wood surface look distinct and highlights the wood’s natural character. Rift-sawn wood has a straighter and more uniform grain. This can be preferable if you want a clean and consistent aesthetic.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the specific product you use for cerusing can affect your success. When trying out various cerusing materials or a specific type of wood, it’s recommended to do a test sample first. Try your preferred cerusing technique first on a small piece or inconspicuous area to ensure you get the effect you desire.

WHERE CAN YOU USE CERUSED WOOD?

While cerusing as a finishing technique dates back to hundreds of years ago, it can be quite versatile in modern times. It’s been used in different parts of the home such as bedroom headboards, tables, lamps, flooring, and kitchen cabinetry. Depending on the specific color of the wood base and the cerusing material, cerused wood can work with a variety of design styles.

Black painted cerused oak can create a stunning and bold effect. The high contrast between a black base and white cerusing lime calls attention to itself. This is perfect for something like a coffee table that’s to be the focal point of your living room. It also pairs perfectly with contemporary kitchen styles. Highlighting the grain on black kitchen cabinets helps it look more inviting while still looking clean and sleek.

If you want something more subtle, then a lighter option like cerused white oak will be a better choice. The more natural and earthy look lends itself well to more rustic design styles such as farmhouse and traditional. It also pairs perfectly if you’re after a coastal-vibe, especially with a Hamptons style aesthetic.

How Do You Care For Cerused Wood?

Caring for your cerused wood cabinets or furniture is not too different from the usual stained or painted counterparts. Remember, cerusing was used for preventing rot and preserving wood back in the day. Generally, it’s a durable and hardy finish.

To keep it looking as good as it can be over the years, you should clean it regularly. Dust the surface with a feather duster or soft cloth to help prevent dirt from building up. Take care to avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals so as not to ruin the finish. Be careful of excessive moisture, as well. Use coasters and placemats to prevent moisture rings, and be sure to immediately wipe up any spills.

WHAT’S THE NEXT STEP?

By now, you may have realized that cerusing can be a very involved process. It’s not as straightforward as simply staining or painting your wood, but it definitely leaves an impression. A beautifully crafted cerused oak shelf or tastefully styled cerused kitchen cabinets can elevate and breathe life into your home. By working closely with a designer who knows all about making the most of cerused wood, you can have a piece of history in your home with a modern touch.

If this all sounds like your cup of tea, then adding cerused wood into your home is a great option! Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen cabinets, walk-in closet, or bathroom vanity in cerused white oak, Wood & Co. can help. We specialize in crafting bespoke cabinetry and handcrafted interiors tailored to your needs. Get in touch with us and let’s talk!

Editor Note: This post was originally published in November 2020. It has been updated with additional information and improvements.