Carving Guide
Sealing your carving..
On any large custom order or onsite project the logs and stumps are sealed against the elements in a few ways. Firstly the entire piece is coated in TWP 1500. This is a pentrating protective oil that sinks deep into the wood and provides protection from both mold/mildew rot and UV protection.
Do I need to apply more sealer?
It is recommended to apply oil/sealer at least once a year or when the piece starts to looks dry/thirsty. Keeping the carving sealed/ well oiled will keep it safe for decades to come! I prefer sealing the carvings with a coat of TWP matching the color used for your project. You can get that info from me. Another option for sealing carvings is to use thinned spar urethane at a ratio of 2:1 parts spar to mineral spirits. It will give a glossy or satin look to the piece and provide a shell of protection, but should only be applied in optimal conditions with a week of clear unhumid weather forecasted.
Where should I keep my carving?
It's recommended to keep in a shady location to allow for a slow drying process to reduce major cracks and checks. Recommended but not required. Pieces in full sun can develop larger cracks from drying at faster rates, but they might be just fine as well. Cracks add character and can really showcase the natural beauty of the material. Carvings can be made for the indoors but it is advised to keep them away from heat sources and off the floor with spacers. Heat sources and the dry conditions of the indoors can cause larger cracks.
Can I set it in the grass?
Spacers allowing for atleast an inch of airflow under the carving is recommended for moisture to escape and to keep it out of sitting water. Pressure treat wood spacers, rocks, or pavers/bricks work great. Some people build platforms for their carvings.
Can I fix cracks?
Although we can take steps to reduce major cracking we can't entirely write them out. Wood is a natural material and will do what it naturally does as it dries. I attempt to manage this with the above mentioned recommendations and the sealing process but checks will happen I suggest embracing and incasing the cracks. Love them for what they are and if need be reduce their presence with a few options.
I can repair pieces for a fee but a cheaper option would be:
If it's a painted piece buy matching paint/spray paint and paint the cracks so they are less apparent.
Applying the corresponding Oil used in sealing your project. It will match the cracks to the color of the piece and they will blend into the piece.
Cracks that compromise the structure of a custom ordered carving, or develop in a unappealing location can be addressed free of charge if brought to my shop.
