Effects of the Traditional Turkish Art of Marbling (Ebru) Techniques on the Adhesion, Hardness, and Gloss of Some Finishing Varnishes

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of ebru, a traditional Turkish art of marbling, on some physical properties of various varnishes. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), Turkish oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky), and medium-density fiberboard specimens were used as substrates. Each sample surface was first stained by ebru or a commercial wood stain (wood paint), dried, and then covered with one of a variety of varnishes. Nitrocellulose-based, alkyd-based synthetic, water-based, and polyurethane-based varnishes were applied as two consecutive topcoats. Adhesion, hardness, and gloss tests were performed. Results showed that, in general, there was not any statistically significant effect of ebru staining before coating with varnishes. In conclusion, the Turkish art of ebru can be utilized on wood and wood-based panels as an artistic and decorative staining technique.