The Journey of Wooden Vases - Part 2: The Art of Seasoning

Seasoning is an age-old practice that breathes life into wood, ensuring its longevity and beauty. In this second installment of our series, we explore the meticulous art of seasoning—the crucial bridge between sourcing our ethically obtained wood and crafting it into the elegant vases you cherish.

Why Seasoning Matters

Seasoning is more than just drying wood; it's about unlocking its fullest potential.

Benefits of Proper Seasoning

• Prevents Cracking and Warping: Removes excess moisture, stabilizing the wood.
• Enhances Durability: Seasoned wood withstands environmental changes better.
• Improves Workability: Easier to shape and craft, allowing for finer details.
• Elevates Aesthetic Appeal: Brings out natural grain patterns and colors.

Our Traditional Seasoning Methods

At ABODE, we blend time-honored techniques with careful attention to detail, ensuring each piece of wood is perfectly prepared.

Rough Structuring

Initial Shaping

• Selection: Each piece of wood is handpicked based on its suitability for the intended vase design.
• Oversizing: Cut into rough shapes slightly larger than the final product, accounting for shrinkage.
• Extra Allowance: An additional 5mm thickness ensures precision in the final crafting stage.

Why It's Important

• Stress Relief: Initial cuts release internal stresses, reducing the risk of future deformities.
• Efficiency: Prepares the wood for uniform drying during seasoning.

Natural Air Drying

Embracing Patience

• Ventilated Storage: Rough structures are placed in airy, shaded areas to prevent rapid drying.
• Duration: Typically lasts for at least 15 days, varying with wood type and environmental conditions.
• Monitoring: Artisans regularly check moisture levels to track progress.

The Slow and Steady Approach

• Even Drying: Prevents surface drying faster than the core, which can cause cracking.
• Preservation of Quality: Maintains the wood's natural properties and integrity.

Smoke Seasoning

A Gentle Tradition

• Smoke Chambers: Special rooms where wood is exposed to controlled heat and smoke.
• Process Details:
• Smoldering Wood Dust: Generates smoke without open flames.
• Temperature Control: Ensures a consistent environment for moisture extraction.
• Timeframe: Wood remains in the smoke chamber for 3-5 days, depending on size and type.

Benefits

• Deep Drying: Smoke penetrates the wood, removing moisture from deep within.
• Natural Preservation: Smoke contains compounds that deter pests and fungi.
• Subtle Hue Enhancement: Imparts a warm tone to the wood, enhancing its natural beauty.

Ash Treatment

The Final Touch

• Immersion in Wood Ash: Seasoned pieces are buried in fine wood powder ash.
• Duration: Kept for about a week to ensure complete moisture absorption.
• Mechanism:
• Moisture Wicking: Ash draws out any remaining moisture.
• Uniform Dryness: Ensures consistency throughout the entire piece.

Why We Do It

• Preventing Surface Moisture: Eliminates residual moisture that could affect finishing.
• Stabilizing the Wood: Finalizes the seasoning process, making the wood ready for crafting.

Ensuring Quality and Longevity

Our commitment to excellence doesn't end with seasoning.

Moisture Testing

• Precision Instruments: Use of moisture meters to verify ideal moisture content.
• Artisan Expertise: Experienced craftsmen assess the wood's readiness by touch and sight.

Quality Assurance

• Rejecting Imperfections: Any piece that doesn't meet our standards is repurposed or recycled.
• Documentation: Keeping records of the seasoning process for continual improvement.

The Human Touch in Seasoning

While technology offers tools, it's the human element that truly makes our seasoning special.

Artisan Involvement

• Generational Knowledge: Techniques passed down through families enhance the process.
• Intuition and Experience: Understanding subtle signs that machines might miss.
• Passion for Craft: A dedication to perfection that infuses each piece with care.

 Connecting with Nature

• Respecting the Material: Treating wood not just as a resource, but as a living material with its own character.
• Sustainable Practices: Utilizing methods that are gentle on the environment.

The art of seasoning is a crucial chapter in the journey of our wooden vases. It's a blend of science, tradition, and heartfelt dedication. By taking the time to prepare our wood properly, we ensure that every vase not only looks stunning but also carries the strength and resilience to be a part of your home for years to come.