Chinese
Chinese

Beginner's Guide to Wenwan Walnuts

Complete beginner's guide to Wenwan walnuts: getting started, basic techniques, and essential knowledge

Getting Started

Wenwan walnuts are part of Chinese traditional culture. Beginners need to understand the following basic knowledge:

  • Variety Recognition: Understand the basic characteristics of common varieties such as Lion Head, Official Hat, and Millstone.
  • Terminology: Familiarize yourself with industry terms such as "patina," "texture," "edge," etc.
  • Basic Tools: Prepare walnut oil, velvet cloth, storage box, and other basic tools.
  • Mindset Adjustment: Wenwan walnuts require patience and time. Don't expect to see significant effects in the short term.

Preparation

1

Choose Suitable Walnuts

Beginners are advised to choose walnuts with harder texture and regular shape, such as Lion Head or Official Hat. These walnuts are less likely to be damaged and are suitable for practice.

2

Cleaning

Newly purchased walnuts need to be cleaned. You can gently wipe the surface with warm water to remove dust and impurities, then air dry naturally.

3

Base Oil Treatment

You can apply a small amount of walnut oil as a base, evenly spread on the walnut surface, then wipe with velvet cloth until it's not sticky.

4

Pairing

Wenwan walnuts are usually played in pairs. Choose two walnuts of similar size and shape for pairing, which helps to form even patina.

Playing Techniques

Playing is the most important aspect of Wenwan walnuts. Correct playing methods can accelerate patina formation:

  • Single-Hand Play: Beginners can practice single-hand play first to get familiar with the feel and weight of the walnuts.
  • Alternating Hands: After becoming proficient, you can try alternating hands, which adds interest.
  • Regular Play: Play at fixed times every day, such as when watching TV or reading, to maintain the habit.
  • Force Control: The force should be moderate during play. Don't use excessive force to avoid damaging the walnut surface.

FAQ

What variety should beginners choose?

Beginners are advised to choose walnuts with harder texture and regular shape, such as Lion Head or Official Hat. These walnuts are less likely to be damaged and are suitable for practice.

How to judge the quality of walnuts?

Judge from three aspects: appearance, feel, and sound. The appearance should be intact, the feel should be steady, and the sound should be crisp and pleasant.

Do new walnuts need oil treatment?

This depends on personal preference. Some people prefer natural patina, while others prefer the effect after oil treatment. Beginners can try light oil treatment, which helps protect the walnut surface.

How long does it take to form patina?

This depends on various factors, including walnut texture, playing frequency, environmental humidity, etc. Generally, it takes months to years to form ideal patina.