I always use and recommend Osmo Oil 420, due to its anti-peeling, water and UV resistance and anti-microbiale resisting properties. It gives the timber a pleasing satin sheen, and you don’t need to put too much on. It tends to last longer than other treatments. Osmo Oil 420 should be reapplied between every one and four years, depending on where your sculpture is situated. Obviously, if your sculpture is on a tree, you cannot choose where it is placed, but ideally, you sould not have your sculpture exposed to the sun and elements constantly, as UV rays affect the colouring of the wood and cracking. If you notice your sculpture beginning to change colour, slightly greying, or look a bit thin in places, it is definitely time to reapply the Osmo Oil 420.

When applying Osmo 420 oil, only apply a thin coat allow 24 - 48 hours to see if you need a second coat. this time fram will vary depending on the temperature. If your sculpture is outdoors then only re-coat in the summer when the weather is dry. summer is best as the nights are warm to aid curing!

Please click on the link at the bottom of this page for more information on Osmo Oil 420.

Cracking…

Unfortunately, all timber cracks in the weather and throughout the seasons. Cracks will grow and shrink as the timber dries out. I’m always very open and honest about this, and all my sculptures come with a one year warranty on crack repair, as this is the time frame during which cracks can appear as the wood stabilises through it’s drying process. There is always slightly more moisture contained in the heart of the sculpture than in its extremities. Thus the shape alters as the wood dries out - it shrinks. 

I rough-carve a large number of my sculptures, and leave them for a period of time in the workshop, returning later to add finer details and repair any changes that have occured. I find that seasoned wood is better for fine detail, and greener wood easier to work with during the blocking out phase of the creation.

 Keep Your Sculpture off the ground…

Place your sculpture on a rock if you can. Don’t place it directly onto soil or grass, as the water can enter the end grain of the wood and this will cause rot from bacteria and fungus. I mount most of my carvings on a stone slab, fence post, or wall, or I fix rubber pads underneath the piece. 

Please do not hesitate to contact me for more information, or with any questions about the aftercare for your sculpture. I am always happy to help and advise you.