Why seams in soapstone are different than Granite

15 years ago

Ok, so I wanted to let people know why some people get great seams in soapstone and others are really not happy with the seams they have.

ItÂs really simple, (in my mind), this is also because I work with this material everyday.

Matching seams in soapstone is difficult for a couple of different reasons. As a fabricator, (granite), you are used to matching up pieces that are already the color and polish they will always be. With soapstone it is very different. You not only have to match up seams when not oiled up, but also when you oil it up, and not to mention everywhere in between . . . This can be an extremely difficult task considering that oil will evaporate off soapstone differently depending on where you place the seam in the slab. Certain slabs fade off quicker in certain areas than in others. So when laying out a kitchen countertop you not only have to consider what looks best with the veining pattern but also how the oilÂs evaporation will effect the entire ÂlookÂ of the kitchen. I think the only real way to get to know how soapstone will act is if you work with it everyday, or often, or are taught by someone who really has an appreciation for the trade.

I hope that those who are searching for soapstone understand what I just said. If I have explained myself in a way that does not make sense, please ask so I can explain myself better. . .

I must add that I find it very difficult to perfect this trade even though I work with the stone everyday. . .

Joshua

Comments (6)

velodoug
15 years ago
Does anyone keep track of the slabs as they make their way from the quarry to the yard so the stone can be bookmatched? That would seem to eliminate many of the problems.
pcjs
15 years ago
Our fab. cut our L shap out that fit on one slab, then cut the seam from that and they also fit the 3 inch backsplash on there prior to cutting from what they said so everything blends nicely for the one side of our kitchen. There was no way to lift the granite (in less they had tons of people and even then moving it around our tiny kitchen was very difficult as it was) without the seam. Ours put a lot of thought into it, which was nice and we didn't have to micromanage, which was even better. They had to use two slabs, but the other slab was used on the other side, so it was a non-issue of it matching up perfectly.
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bethv
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Thanks, Joshua - this is great. M.Tex cut our stone & they did a great job, except there's a small piece next to the stove that has a different "finish". It just doesn't take the oil like the stone across the seam. There are other areas that are similar to the piece next to the stove but it's a gradual transition, so you don't notice it. If I oil that area, it blends better. Do you have any more permanent suggestions? I was thinking maybe I should rough it up with sand paper.

p.s. While I really love my 30" soapstone sink, I still dream of your stunning curve-front sink.
florida_joshua
Original Author
15 years ago
We do keep track of slabs as they come in. . . We buy containers at a time. Each lot is cut from the same block and you really have to organize the slabs as you unload the container. . .

I guess my point is that making the seams match; even from the same slab is difficult depending on what slab it comes from. These variables that I talk about are not from lot to lot, but from within each slab. Some slabs are easy to match up, but others are very difficult.
florida_joshua
Original Author
15 years ago
Bethv,

I just had the nerve to put it up on the market for a reasonable price. I did get some stone in my last container that will match it, so I'm sure it will go. . .

Yes I will make another one, and will be sure it will match some slabs I get in so it will sell . . .

Also, your kitchen is (I'm assuming) that perfect example of how soapstone changes within each slab. My question is does the stone match when you oil it up? It should. . . I can't give you a certain answer but many times it just takes a little time for the patina to form for it to stay consistent.
willowdecor
15 years ago
Joshua,
My soaptone is Santa Rita Venata. I really love it. What grit should they have finsihed it to? They used 120, but I think they should have used 240 for a smoother feel. Its a bit gritty - and not super soapy.

Why seams in soapstone are different than Granite

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Why seams in soapstone are different than Granite

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