Care instructions

Care instructions – How to keep your wooden art beautiful for decades

Wood is a living material

Wooden sculptures are natural products and deserve proper care. With the right measures, you will enjoy your artwork for decades.

The right location

✅ Ideal conditions:

  • Room temperature: 18-22°C
  • Humidity: 40-60%
  • Light: Partial shade to bright, indirect light
  • Placement: At least 30 cm away from radiators

❌ Avoid:

  • Direct sunlight over a prolonged period
  • Extreme temperature fluctuations
  • Very dry heating air in winter
  • Damp rooms such as bathrooms (without adequate ventilation)
  • Drafts from constantly open windows

  • Regular care

    Dust removal

    How often: 1-2 times per week
    Method: Dust with a soft, dry microfiber cloth or duster.

    Tip: Do not use damp cloths for regular cleaning.

    Surface refresh

    How often: 1-2 times per year
    Method:

    1. Thoroughly dust the sculpture
    2. Apply a thin coat of high-quality wood oil (e.g., linseed oil, hard wax oil).
    3. Work in with a soft cloth
    4. Leave to dry for 24 hours
    5. Polish with a cotton cloth.

    Recommended products:

    • Linseed oil (natural)
    • Hard wax oil for furniture
    • Wax for extra shine

    Cleaning in case of soiling

    Light soiling:

    • Use a slightly damp cloth
    • Wipe immediately with a dry cloth.
    • Then treat with oil.

    Stubborn stains:

    • Never use harsh cleaners
    • If needed: wood soap with a little water
    • Always clean in the direction of the fibers.
    • Dry thoroughly and re-oil.

    Special characteristics of different types of wood

    Walnut tree:

    • It darkens slightly over time (desired).
    • It tolerates slightly more light than other woods.
    • Less frequent re-oiling is required (denser wood)

    Oak:

    • Very robust and easy to care for
    • It also tolerates drier indoor air well.
    • The distinctive grain pattern becomes more intense over time.

    Cherry tree:

    • Darkens beautifully over time (golden tones)
    • More sensitive to direct sunlight
    • Benefits from regular oiling

    Beech:

    • Lightest type of wood, sensitive to UV light
    • Requires constant humidity
    • Regular maintenance is important

    Seasonal Notes

    Winter (heating season):

    • Keep an eye on the humidity (hygrometer)
    • Use a humidifier if necessary.
    • Apply oil more frequently (wood dries faster)
    • Do not place directly next to radiators

    Summer:

    • Ensure ventilation in extreme heat.
    • Avoid direct sunlight
    • Check occasionally for cracks

    Frequently asked questions about care

    Can wood crack?
    Small cracks are normal in solid wood and part of its natural character. They do not affect stability. Larger cracks can be caused by excessively dry air – pay attention to the humidity.

    Does the wood change color?
    Yes, wood is a living material and changes over time. Walnut and cherry wood darken, and beech can darken slightly. This patina is desirable and adds character to the artwork.

    What to do in case of damage?
    You can carefully remove small scratches yourself using fine sandpaper (220 grit) and then re-oil. For more extensive damage, please contact me.

    Can I move the sculpture?
    Yes, but give the wood time to adapt to new climatic conditions. Extreme changes in location (e.g., from warm to cold) should be avoided.

    Long-term care

    With proper care, wooden sculptures can last for generations. Over the years, the wood develops a wonderful patina, making it even more valuable.

    Recommended every 5-10 years:

    • Professional surface refresh
    • If necessary, resand heavily stressed areas.
    • Intensive oil or wax treatment

    Professional restoration

    Should your sculpture ever be damaged or require a refresh after years, I offer professional restoration services.

    ➜ Contact for restoration