Distressed Shutters, and Specialty Finishes on Plantation Shutters
How does this process work?
Any time we match a finish we request a physical sample. This is incredibly important in specialty finishes because each finish is unique. Did the original finisher have a heavy hand, or a light hand when he wiped off the glaze? What tool was used to do the distressing? A wire brush? Chains? A wheel? There are an incredible number of variables, and since these shutters are often going up against millwork or paneling, it is critical to get a good match.
So we bring a sample that shows the finished look, and the stain department does a strike-off (or sample) of their ability to replicate the finish on your plantation shutters. This is then provided to the homeowner/designer for their approval. Once approved, we proceed with the finish work. Distressed, glazed, antiqued and sand thru finishes are going to have a longer than average lead time, due to the complexity of the finish. But just like fine wine, it’s worth the wait.
Here are just a couple of photos of specialty finishes that have gone through our factory lately.

stained, distressed red oak shutters

exterior shutters with a sand through finish

painted and glazed knotty alder result in an antique distressed look
As nice as these distressed and specialty finished shutters look, they are all an effort to duplicate an old world look. And the best way to get an authentic old work look is to use old wood.
Enter wormy chestnut……


Pecky Cypress with a glazed finish