The Spanish tile look was getting tired, and this reeded feature has instantly elevated this space. I used @weaberlumber oak bullnose moulding to achieve the reeded appearance, and framed it with 1x4 and 1x6 red oak.

The design is simple, but making sure an oak feature comes out flawless takes time! I tested many different stain combinations and settled on a neutral tone, a 1:1 mixture of Early American and Flagstone by Varathane. I wanted to make sure the stain coordinated with the other wood tones in this space. Before staining, I sanded every single piece three times, progressing from a coarse grit (80) to medium grit (120) to fine grit (220). This gives the woods the smoothest, most velvety texture. I used a pre-stain wood conditioner to ensure even coloring with the stain, and when it was time to finally stain I wiped it off fairly quickly to prevent the color getting too dark. Finally, three coats of polyurethane in a satin finish with light sanding in between each coat.

For install, I used my pin nailer, which holds super small 23g nails. The benefit of using this nailer, instead of an 18g, is that the nail holes are so tiny they blend right in. No filling needed. It looks phenomenal and I wish you could feel it because it’s smooth like buttah 🧈