Hollowed out logs - Woodworking Talk

abraham · 10-31-2009, 11:55 AM

Hi all. I am a sheet metal worker so not that up on woodworking. I have these big hollowed out logs that I would like to preserve by coating them with some product. The question is what would do this best. Shalack, stain, etc...?? Thanks for any help.

**Daren** · 10-31-2009, 12:16 PM

Are they going to be used inside or outside ?

**Daren** · 10-31-2009, 12:47 PM

And are they dry ? If not it's gonna be a mess no matter what you put on them most likely. (they will shrink-crack all kinds of bad stuff)

johnep · 10-31-2009, 05:18 PM

I was about to ask the question, but Daren got in first. I am just wondering to which purpose would the hollowed out logs be put. First thought was dug out canoe, then perhaps a tunnel feature for a play ground. If exterior I would suggest fence preservative. If interior, then oil,wax or varnish.
johnep

abraham · 11-01-2009, 04:12 AM

you know I am not really sure what I am going to use them for. I just think they are cool looking and wanted to preserve them. Maybe I'll plant something in them. Dont really know. They are pretty dry. It was a standing dead tree that recently came down. The bottom 8 feet or so was just totally hollow. They are sitting in my garage at the moment. Most likely will be kept outside. Will a fence preservitive give my that nice varnish look.