I’d love to see your carving in situ,Your carving will naturally dry out and eventually crack!

This is the nature of a wood as it dries. I believe that the natural cracking adds charm to your piece. No two carvings will ever be the same. Your carving can last for a very long time providing you look after it properly. Follow the below steps:

Place your carving in a shady spot. Too much sun will accelerate the drying process and cause it to split excessively. Small cracks will open and close – depending on the weather. If you keep your carving indoors, then it is likely to split very quickly due to the warmer conditions.

Lift your carving off the ground. This will reduce contact with the damp and minimise the likelihood of pot rot. Pot stands (planter feet) work well. Gravel and decking also improves ventilation but does not provide an open gap at the base.

Treat your carving with wood preserve or oil. Your carving has already had a coat of Danish oil. It is difficult to say how often to treat your carving as the weather can effect it hugely, four times a year would be a good start and then as often as you think the carving needs treating. For example; if the sun has been directly on the carving for weeks at a time.

Secure your carving. It should, under normal conditions stand under its own weight. However strong winds or an accidental nudge could topple the carving. If your carving is on public display, you may need additional security to ensure it doesn’t go missing.

And most importantly; enjoy your carving.

Please send me any photographs, I love seeing the carvings in situ.