engrainer

Engrainer is a term used in the context of woodworking and finishing to describe a process and a tool. The process involves using a tool called an "engrainer" to create a textured surface that mimics the grain of wood. This is often done on surfaces that are not made of real wood, such as metal, plastic, or certain types of plaster, to give them a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

The engraining process typically involves applying a coating of paint or other finish to the surface and then using the engrainer to drag across the wet material, pulling it in a way that simulates wood grain patterns. Engrainers come in various forms, including rollers with textured surfaces, flexible rubber tools, or even brushes designed to create the desired effect. The depth and pattern of the simulated grain can be adjusted by the pressure applied and the angle at which the engrainer is used. This technique is commonly employed in decorative painting, furniture restoration, and creating realistic wood effects on non-wood materials.