Redwood- need ideas

[Buffalo Bif]

I have a little project using redwood, and I'd like to accentuate the grain- I'd like to remove the soft/faster ? growth and leave the harder rings proud, resulting in a wavy textured surface, something like what happens to barn siding over time. I'll try a propane torch, but thought I'd ask the forum for other ideas, as I don't have a lot of material to practice on.

[Dicky]

I have heard of a torch followed by a stiff wire brush. Iwould think that a wire wheel in an angle grinder might work. Another possibility would be sandblasting. The last two are pure speculation on my part. The torch and brush were used on cedar. Good luck on your quest.

[North Wind]

I have sandblasted many signs and it works great Start with lower pressure and work your way up.Be sure to tape off anything that you don`t want touched. Vince

[Robson Valley]

Take a wood sample to a commercial paint shop (automotive? heavy equipment?). Explain what you want to see and have them give it a blast.
Many years ago, Douglas-fir plywood was sandblasted to make an attractive wall panelling.

My guess is that you'd better have all the carving part done first. Cutting back into the wood and hitting a sand grain, or a bit of walnut shell if that's what they use, will spoil both your tool and your day.

[Sharon of the Dell]

A pressure washer might work.

[scooter]

I have used the torch method with success. Don't linger with the torch. You don't want the piece to actually catch fire; you're just charring the soft material on the rings. After burning, brush with a plastic bristle, such as the kind you would use to scour pots and pans. It doesn't need to be overly stiff. A wire bristle is too severe, and will leave marks.

After brushing, the piece will still be darkened, so it's only good if you're going to paint afterwards. I suppose sandblasting, while I haven't tried that method, would be good if you want to leave the piece natural.

S~

[Donsexton]

Soak it in soapy water for a few days to raise the soft grain using a stainless steel wire brush by hand so as not to leave black carbon behind, but the best way is sand blasting.

[Claude]

You might try using a Dremel with a brass or stainless wire brush on the end, going with the curvature of the grain so you're primarily brushing the softer part. Try on scrap first, though.

Claude

[Buffalo Bif]

Originally Posted by Donsexton

Soak it in soapy water for a few days to raise the soft grain using a stainless steel wire brush by hand so as not to leave black carbon behind, but the best way is sand blasting.

Don, I take your method does not involve burning the wood? Do you wire brush while wet?

I appreciate the suggestions, i do have enough material to try a couple methods on some scraps. Thanks all,