Carving Care FAQs
Will my carving crack?
Since wood is an organic medium, it is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. THEREFORE ALL CARVINGS WILL HAVE CRACKS.
How to care for my carving?
Carvings will last longer if kept indoors, away from moisture, heat sources (i.e., fireplace, baseboard heat, heat vent, etc.) and out of direct sunlight.
Can I put my carving outdoors?
If carving will be kept outdoors and exposed to the elements, reapply stain/sealer at least once per year. We recommend using Cabot Australian Timber Oil. (The color of stain/sealer used varies on each carving. Using a different color will change the coloring of your carving. Contact us to inquire about the original stain/sealer color). Also, do not set carving on dirt or grass. Set on gravel, cement paver or some other non porous material to maintain airflow and prevent mold.
How to care for my tree stump carving?
Please be aware that the carving will develop cracks as the stump dries out. This is a natural process of the outside drying faster than the inside and is unavoidable. Large cracks that develop through any main focal point of the subject (i.e.,face, arm, paw, wing) can be repaired after at least one year of drying time. This allows for one full summer heat cycle for cracks to open up. If needed, after one year of drying time the artist can repair large cracks on the main focal point of the subject. There will be no labor charge for these initial repairs, only materials charges and travel costs if applicable. If additional repairs are requested after the initial repairs, there will be a charge for labor, materials, and travel costs.
​
Proper maintenance and care will help prolong the life of the carving. We recommend reapplying Cabot Australian Timber Oil twice per year (spring and fall). Color of stain/sealer and where to buy it will be communicated upon completion of the artwork.
