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 appropriate care. With the right measures, you'll enjoy your work of art 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 for a long time
  • Extreme temperature fluctuations
  • Very dry heating air in winter
  • Damp rooms such as bathrooms (without adequate ventilation)
  • Drafts due to constantly open windows

  • Regular care

    Dust removal

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

    Tip: Do not use wet wipes for regular cleaning.

    Refreshing the surface

    How often: 1-2 times per year
    Method:

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

    Recommended products:

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

    Cleaning when dirty

    Light soiling:

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

    Stubborn stains:

    • Never use aggressive cleaners
    • If necessary: ​​wood soap with a little water
    • Always clean in the direction of the grain
    • Dry thoroughly and re-oil

    Special features of different types of wood

    Walnut:

    • Darkens slightly over time (desired)
    • Tolerates slightly more light than other woods
    • Requires less frequent re-oiling (denser wood)

    Oak:

    • Very robust and easy to care for
    • Tolerates even drier room air well
    • Striking grain becomes more intense over time

    Cherry tree:

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

    Beech:

    • Lightest wood species, sensitive to UV light
    • Requires constant humidity
    • Regular care is important

    Seasonal information

    Winter (heating period):

    • Keep an eye on humidity (hygrometer)
    • Use a humidifier if necessary
    • Re-oil more often (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 its stability. Larger cracks can occur due to excessively dry air – keep an eye on the humidity.

    Does the wood discolor?
    Yes, wood is a living material and changes over time. Walnut and cherry darken over time, and beech can darken slightly. This patina is desired and adds character to the work of art.

    What to do if there is damage?
    You can carefully remove small scratches yourself with fine sandpaper (220 grit) and then re-oil them. For more serious 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. The wood develops a wonderful patina over the years, making it even more valuable.

    Recommended every 5-10 years:

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

    Professional restoration

    Should your sculpture become damaged or need a refresh after years, I offer professional restoration services.

    ➜ Contact for restoration