Yesterday we had the fabulous opportunity to check out Basilica di San Nicola- otherwise known as the tomb of St Nick- or Santa Claus. Did you know Santa was a legit person, a saint from 280 AD? I sort of did, but now I know it for a fact!
St Nicola was known for not only his generosity but also his many miracles. He was persecuted for his faith and but that didn't stop him. Stories of his generosity have led to myths and legends throughout the last 1800 years, including our modern stories of Santa Claus. What an incredible legacy.
The basilica was built in 1000AD people from all over pilgrimage here to pay respects. ⛪️ Y
These incredible stone arches have held the stone ceiling in place for a century now. You can see this incredible craftsmanship throughout the basicilica.
This project is for a mantel, but you can create this rustic brown look on any raw wood. To recreate this, though, you would want to purchase an unfinished mantel or strip the existing finish on a mantel you already have. Like I said, any wood species will work!
MATERIALS
- Raw Wood, any species
- Sand Paper- 80
- Palm Sander
- Weatherwood Restoration Stain
- Weatherwood Stains Maintenance Oil CLEAR
- Weatherwood Satin Varnish -optional
Directions
1] SAND: The wood should be sanded prior to staining. You should start with 80 grit and then 120 grit. (You can do a finish sand at the end, at 220 or above.)
2] STAIN: Applying the Restoration stain is like a piece of cake, read "even easier than typical stains."
Using a large brush and drench the wood with stain. (See above video, also shown on oak.) Apply stain until wood reaches your desired level of darkness. Let the wood air dry for 60 minutes.
Using a large brush and drench the wood with stain. (See above video, also shown on oak.) Apply stain until wood reaches your desired level of darkness. Let the wood air dry for 60 minutes.
This is one coat:
This is after two coats:
3] DARKEN: Applying the Weatherwood Clear Maintenance Oil application is just like your typical wood stain application. You brush or wipe it onto wood, allow 5-10 minutes for it to penetrate, then wipe of excess. Allow to cure 48 hours.
4.] SEAL: If your project is on a high traffic or water area, you will want to let the OIL cure for 48 hours, then seal overtop with 2-3 coats of Weatherwood Varnish, allowing 30 minutes between coats.
You can see the wood achieved a warm brown rustic look, while still looking 100% natural and aged.
If you liked this mantel, check out this Rustic Restoration Table! [link] The texture on this oak just makes the color POP, don't you think? This stain will turn most wood species this shade. Save 10% on All Weatherwood Products with code: WELCOME10.
