Caring for
Your Wood Art
Each piece is built to last generations. With minimal care, it will age beautifullyโdeveloping character while preserving its soul.
The Golden Rules
Remember these three things and your piece will thrive.
Keep It Dry
Wood and moisture don't mix. Avoid humid rooms and never let water sit on the surface.
Shade Is Friend
Direct sunlight fades and dries wood over time. Indirect light keeps colors rich.
Dust Gently
A soft, dry cloth is all you need. Microfiber works best. No chemicals required.
Do
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth
- Keep in stable temperature and humidity (40-60% humidity is ideal)
- Use felt pads under objects placed on wood surfaces
- Lift objects instead of dragging them across the surface
- Allow natural light, but avoid direct sun exposure
- Apply natural wood oil once a year if desired (optional)
- Embrace the natural aging process โ it adds character
Don't
- Use water, wet cloths, or steam cleaners
- Apply chemical cleaners, polishes, or sprays
- Place in direct sunlight or near heat sources
- Hang in bathrooms, kitchens, or humid areas
- Use abrasive materials or scrub the surface
- Leave items on the surface that can trap moisture
- Attempt to refinish without consulting us first
Care in Detail
Everything you need to know, explained simply.
Daily & Weekly Care
Dusting (Weekly)
Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Gently wipe in the direction of the wood grain. This removes dust particles that can scratch the surface over time if left to accumulate.
For carved or textured pieces, use a soft brush (like a clean makeup brush) to reach into grooves and details.
Inspection (Monthly)
Take a moment to look at your piece in good light. Check for any signs of moisture damage, cracks, or finish wear. Early detection makes any issue easier to address.
Light & Placement
The Ideal Spot
Choose a location with indirect natural light or artificial lighting. Avoid placing your piece directly opposite windows where sunlight streams in, especially south-facing windows.
Why Sunlight Matters
UV rays break down wood fibers and fade natural colors over time. Direct sun can also create uneven heating, causing the wood to expand and contract unevenlyโleading to cracks or warping.
Heat Sources
Keep wood art away from radiators, fireplaces, heating vents, and air conditioning units. Rapid temperature changes stress the wood.
Rotating (Optional)
If your piece receives some indirect sunlight, consider rotating it 180ยฐ every few months. This ensures even aging and prevents one side from fading faster than the other.
Humidity & Climate
The Sweet Spot: 40-60% Humidity
Wood is hygroscopicโit absorbs and releases moisture from the air. Extreme humidity (above 70%) can cause swelling, while very dry air (below 30%) can cause shrinking and cracking.
Seasonal Changes
In winter, indoor heating dries the air significantly. Consider using a humidifier to maintain stable humidity. In summer, air conditioning can also dry the air more than you'd expect.
Rooms to Avoid
- Bathrooms: Too humid, even with ventilation
- Kitchens: Steam, heat, and grease
- Basements: Often damp and poorly ventilated
- Near exterior doors: Temperature fluctuations
Signs of Humidity Problems
Small cracks, warping, or finish lifting can indicate humidity issues. If you notice these, adjust the environment before the problem worsens.
Minor Repairs
Small Scratches
Light surface scratches can often be minimized by gently rubbing with a walnut or pecan. The natural oils help blend the scratch into the surrounding wood. For oil-finished pieces, a light application of the same oil can help.
Dents
Small dents can sometimes be raised using steamโplace a damp cloth over the dent and briefly apply a warm iron. However, we recommend contacting us before attempting this on finished pieces.
Loose Mounting
If wall-mounted pieces become loose, remove and reinstall with fresh hardware. Check that the wall anchor is appropriate for your wall type (drywall, plaster, concrete).
When to Contact Us
For deep scratches, cracks, finish damage, or any repair you're unsure aboutโplease reach out. We're happy to advise or arrange professional restoration.
Resin Pieces (Special Care)
Understanding Resin
Pieces with epoxy resin elements require the same basic care as pure wood, with a few additional considerations.
UV Sensitivity
While our resin is UV-stabilized, prolonged direct sunlight can still cause yellowing over years. Indirect light is always better.
Temperature
Resin softens at high temperatures. Keep away from extreme heat sourcesโdon't place near radiators or in direct summer sun through glass.
Cleaning Resin Surfaces
Use only a soft, dry cloth. If needed, a barely-damp cloth with plain water can be used, but dry immediately. Never use alcohol, acetone, or chemical cleanersโthey can cloud or damage the resin.
Scratches on Resin
Minor scratches can sometimes be polished out with a plastic polish, but contact us first. Deep scratches may require professional refinishing.
Seasonal Awareness
Wood responds to the seasons. Here's what to watch for.
Spring
Humidity rises. Check for any swelling or changes from winter. Good time for a thorough dusting after heating season.
Summer
Watch for direct sun through windows. Air conditioning can dry air significantlyโconsider humidifier if below 40%.
Autumn
Transition period. Good time for optional annual oiling if your piece has an oil finish. Inspect before heating season.
Winter
Indoor heating drastically lowers humidity. Use a humidifier to maintain 40-50%. Keep away from radiators and vents.
Keep This Handy
Need help with your piece?
Questions about care, repairs, or restoration? We're always happy to help.
Contact Us