How to preserve large driftwood piece ?

It would take a very long time for it to break down because of natural elements. I would leave it plain but you could spray it with acrylic sealer

Hi Diane, you can protect and seal the driftwood with a clear matte lacquer. Spray it on lightly and let dry. Repeat a few times giving it a light mist spray each time to preserve the natural beauty of the wood.

Driftwood usually can last a very long time if it doesn’t sit in dampness. Try putting it on top of rocks if possible to keep it off the ground. You could also help preserve it with something like Thompson’s water seal.

Start with a thorough cleaning and a light bleach soak, this would kill any hidden bugs. Let dry in the sun. Then follow this step by step link to preserve it:

https://www.wikihow.com/Preserve-Wood

Here is an article that will help you: https://sandbetweenmypiggies.com/clean-preserve-driftwood/#:~:text=The%20driftwood%20should%20be%20fully,larger%20pieces%20might%20take%20longer.

Here's a link:

https://www.ehow.com/how_8733201_can-preserve-driftwood.html

A large piece can be sprayed with a garden pump sprayer with a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach:1 gallon of water with 1 tsp. Of liquid dish soap.

It will take several applications and rotating the piece.

Of course, any overspray will kill plants, so be aware of the wind direction and wear latex or plastic gloves.

After the bleach treatment, I would “paint” it with mineral or linseed oil. The linseed oil is cheaper but it yellows over time.

How to Preserve Driftwood

https://www.wikihow.com/Preserve-Driftwood#:~:text=How%20to%20Preserve%20Driftwood%201%20Method%201%20of,you%E2%80%99ve%20done%20any%20optional%20woodworking%20or%20painting.

https://therestlesscreativeco.com/blog/10-tips-for-preserving-driftwood/ hope this helps!

To keep it outdoors, you’ll need a spar varnish or other exterior rated sealer.

Hi Diane, I would use a matte acrylic spray, or this link may help you out

https://www.wikihow.com/Preserve-Driftwood

I think the Wiki link Deb K posted is your best advice. I have a friend who did all the cleaning first and hers has lasted for years. I would use fine steel wool instead of sandpaper though.

Here's a post that might help https://therestlesscreativeco.com/blog/10-tips-for-preserving-driftwood/

I collect a lot of drift wood and use this product and it works great: https://amzn.to/3uvdW8b

After cleaning up your driftwood, use a sealant to preserve it. Try sealing driftwood with a matte clear acrylic sealer, furniture polish, tung oil, wood wax, or teak oil. These solutions will help waterproof your driftwood piece and prevent it from rotting.

Hope this helps: https://frugalhomeaddict.com/how-to-preserve-driftwood/

You can preserve the driftwood well by spraying with a clear outdoor marine varnish. Spray several thin coats with good drying time in between the coats.