it's pretty easy actually. i've only ever done it with Pine, but believe you can do it with any wood. we just used a small propane torch like you'd use for plumbing. get the torch going and then move the flame over the grain slowly or until you get the darkness you're looking for. on Pine, it really brings out the grain with nice browns and blacks and light spots. you would definitely want to play with the technique a bit before applying it to your actual piece. :smile: