Lighten up wood?

[Mike L.]

I have some ziricote with a nice figure, but it is too dark to see it well.
Is there some process or chemical that can lighten the surface of the wood?
I thought about a chlorine bleach solution, but...I am afraid it will damage the wood.

Thanks,

Mike L.

 

[mdoyle]

Mike go to your local Sherwin Williams or similar quality paint store. They sell wood bleach. It will lighten it. It will also remove your fingerprints if you let it. Don't get it on your skin.
Matt Doyle

 

[MacHete]

Can this be done to wood already on a finished knife? Tips would be appreciated. :thumbup:

 

[HomeBru]

From http://antiquerestorers.com/Articles/SAL/Bleach.htm

"Bleaches are highly reactive chemicals that break down the color(s) in the wood. There are basically three types of chemicals most commonly used to bleach wood, Oxalic acid, Sodium hypochlorite and a two part A/B wood bleach. Oxalic acid is a good choice for removing stains in wood, but is very poisonous. Sodium hypochlorite usually works well on aniline dye, but once again is dangerous in inexperienced hands. The two part A/B wood bleach is what I use and the one I suggest you try. It is by far the most effective all around and easiest to use, however, (like any chemical) you must still take great care when using this or any other bleach or wood lightner."

I've used oxalic acid with good results on oak and hickory and poor results on cherry...

 

[firebert]

Ziricote gets pretty dark when oiled. I've heard one good thing to do is to rub on some carnauba wax right after polishing, this keeps oils out. You would have to re-finish it, though.

I'd be afraid of bleaching something as dense as ziricote. No real reason, I just doesn't seem right. If it works, be sure to post back here.