schuurwerk

Schuurwerk is a Dutch term used in carpentry, furniture making and decorative arts to describe deliberate surface distressing of wood and other materials to produce a weathered, aged or worn appearance. The name derives from schuren (to sand) and werk (work).

Techniques range from controlled sanding with hand or power tools to wire brushing, planing, and scraping to remove or abrade surface layers. Finishes such as glazes, washes, waxes or oil are often applied and then partially removed to enhance grain and depth.

Schuurwerk is used to imitate antique patina in new furniture, to match a period in restoration, or to achieve rustic or 'shabby chic' aesthetics in interiors. It can be applied to panels, cabinets, doors and decorative surfaces.

Practitioners plan the pattern of wear, focusing on edges and corners or on strategically chosen areas. The degree of distress can be light or heavy, and care is taken to avoid compromising structural integrity. Dust control and safety equipment are important during work.

See also: distressing, patina, weathering, antiquing.