Tips on Maintaining a Log Carving
Although the logs used for carving experienced some drying time, and the top is usually sealed, moisture needs to escape somewhere. I recommend putting cardboard on the bottom of the log to absorb the moisture and change the cardboard when necessary. Another option is to put a number of wood pieces spaced out evenly to allow air flow and water moisture to escape. Even with sealer, some logs will show evidence of moisture escaping around the carving itself, and can form mold. Use a very diluted bleach i.e. javex (don’t remove the sealer) and a small disposable brush and lightly brush the area. Clean up with a disposable paper towel.
Raw logs are somewhat unstable as they dry out. The harder the wood, the more stable the carving. Poplar is a soft hardwood and care should be used where it is sitting and stored. Birch is much harder and can withstand temperature fluctuations more. Log fibers will try to release, and when carved, the area exposed is likely the spot you may get cracking. The face is usually sealed with an oil such as linseed or tung oil, a wax, and satin sealer to decrease risk of checking (cracks). Checking on the top and bottom of the carving is natural and should not be discouraged. Most carvings are several inches below the top to limit checking going into the carved area.
- Caution on varying temperature ranges with the carving as the moisture in the log will contract and expand, increasing chances of checking. Storage over the winter months should be away from heat sources. Cold floors or surfaces may cause fibres to expand increasing risk, and it is not recommended to put logs directly on infloor heated areas.
- If outside, I would recommend an area that is not in direct sunlight. All of the environmental elements causes wear on a carving...and may give it a nice aged look. The sun’s UV rays break down the sealer over time and may darken the carving. Some like this effect so it’s really the customer’s preference. Some re-apply their own sealer each year as a protectant, and that is OK. I recommend a matt or satin sealer...1-2 light coats to prevent sheen (glossy look). When dry, use a plain paper bag, scrunch it up in a ball, and buff the area sealed to get rid of the roughness.
- The eyes are usually burned but acrylics are used on occasion, and will fade over time. Some like the effect, or the eyes can be scraped and painted or burned again...then sealed with a sealer.
Enjoy your log carving.
Patrick Mullally
Irishman Carvings