Potassium Silicate – Wood Hardening and Impregnation in Violin Making Potassium silicate is a traditional treatment used in violin making to harden and impregnate wood. It is primarily applied to the inside of the instrument, especially on high-quality, thinly carved tonewood tops and backs. This treatment increases structural strength without negatively affecting the acoustic properties of the wood. Impregnating the wood with potassium silicate stabilizes the cell structure, improves resistance to moisture, mold, and aging, and prepares the surface for further steps such as grounding or varnishing. It is a well-established part of traditional wood preparation in the crafting and restoration of fine string instruments. Preparing the Solution Depending on the desired intensity, the solution can be mixed as follows: 5% solution (mild hardening): 50 ml potassium silicate + 300 ml water Ideal for sensitive or very thin wood areas. 10% solution (stronger effect): 50 ml potassium silicate + 125 ml water For more robust parts or deeper penetration. Application The solution is applied evenly to the raw inner surface of finely sanded wood using a brush or sponge. Allow to dry completely (several hours, depending on ambient conditions). Any crystal residues can be gently removed with fine steel wool or a soft cloth. Safety Note Potassium silicate is strongly alkaline. Wear protective gloves during use and avoid contact with skin or eyes. Store the product sealed, cool, and frost-free.

Gelatin – Natural Pre-Stain Treatment for Violin Making Our premium-quality gelatin is a traditional, all-natural product used in violin making, especially as a pre-stain treatment to saturate the wood before staining. It ensures even absorption of the stain and prevents blotchy results – ideal for preparing fine tonewoods. Features: 100% natural and organic Soluble in hot water – easy to prepare and apply Low odor and dries clear Prevents uneven stain absorption Stabilizes the wood surface without affecting tonal quality Application in Violin Making: Gelatin is traditionally used to saturate the wood surface before applying stain. It penetrates deeply into the pores and helps regulate stain absorption – especially important for spruce and maple. Preparation: Soak the gelatin in cold water until swollen, then heat gently in a water bath to a maximum of 60 °C (140 °F) until fully dissolved. Apply the warm solution thinly with a brush. Only freshly prepared gelatin should be used. ⚠ Not suitable for consumption – for technical use in violin making only.

JOHA® ImitorTargeted Etching for Authentic Antique Effects JOHA® Imitor is a professional specialty product for artificially aging the varnish on string instruments. It allows violin makers and restorers to realistically replicate decades of natural wear – precisely, effectively, and under full manual control. The Imitor is applied using a fine brush or an open-pored natural sponge. While the brush enables exact lines and worn edges, the sponge creates irregular, point-like etching patterns across surfaces – ideal for authentic, naturally aged appearances. The product begins working immediately: It etches the varnish as long as it remains on the surface, and stops only when wiped off with water. The depth and intensity of the effect can be precisely controlled through the exposure time. The resulting changes are irreversible – the effect is permanent and cannot be undone. Professional experience and precision are therefore essential. After etching, the affected areas are traditionally filled with dark color, nut stain, or antique patina. These substances settle into the etched recesses and enhance the structure, depth, and classic antique look of the instrument. A final layer of varnish can then be applied to blend the effect into the surface and visually tone down the aged areas, creating a harmonized and elegant finish. Key Benefits: Targeted or surface-wide etching of varnish layers Application with fine brush or natural sponge Effect stops once wiped off with water Permanent, irreversible visual changes to the varnish Subsequent filling with dark color, nut stain, or patina Optional final varnish layer for optical refinement Ideal for antique finishes, touch-ups, and restorations Application Notes: Use only on fully cured varnish surfaces Do not apply to bare wood Always test on a sample surface before full application ⚠️ Important Notice: JOHA® Imitor is intended for use by experienced professionals only. Incorrect or careless application can lead to permanent varnish damage. The product chemically etches the varnish and causes irreversible surface alterations. Always test thoroughly on a sample area before use.

Potash (Potassium Carbonate) – Traditional Aid in Violin Making Potash, also known as potassium carbonate, is a proven aid in violin making and the woodworking of string instruments. Traditionally, it is used for the preparation of wood stains and for the pre-treatment of tonewoods to enhance the grain and ensure even color absorption. Benefits & Uses Classic component for stain and surface treatment recipes in instrument making Opens wood pores and enhances natural color depth Easily soluble in water for custom mixtures Suitable for maple, spruce, and other tonewoods Product Details Chemical name: Potassium carbonate Form: Fine white powder Purity: High purity, suitable for craftsmanship in instrument making Safety Notice Potash is a mild alkali. Always wear protective gloves and safety goggles when mixing. Not suitable for food use. With potash, you rely on a traditional, versatile, and proven material for the optimal preparation of wood surfaces in violin making.

Iron(II) Sulfate – Stain & Wood Preparation for String Instruments Iron(II) sulfate is traditionally used in violin making as part of staining solutions to enhance the natural color of maple and spruce. In combination with tannins in the wood, it produces warm, brownish tones that serve as a base for the subsequent varnishing. Application: In aqueous solution, optionally combined with gallnut or tea extract Function: Reacts with wood components to create a natural pre-coloring Use: Violin, viola, cello, and other string instruments Tip: Test on scrap wood first to evaluate the color effect Note: Chemical product – wear suitable protective gloves and avoid contact with skin and eyes.