To care for olive wood, dust it with a soft dry cloth, keep it away from direct heat, water and long sun, and once or twice a year rub in a little olive oil or natural wood oil to feed the grain. Never soak olive wood or put it in a dishwasher. Cared for this way, a Holy Land olive wood piece will last for generations.
Olive wood is one of the hardest and longest living woods in the world, which is why Christian families in Bethlehem have carved it for centuries. Bethlehem Handicrafts has carved genuine olive wood in Bethlehem since 2000, and this guide shows you the simple steps that keep every cross, rosary, statue and nativity looking its best.
How do you clean olive wood?
Wipe the piece with a soft, dry or barely damp cloth to lift dust and fingerprints. Do not use soap, household cleaners or furniture polish, because the chemicals can dry the wood and dull its natural glow. For fine carved details, a soft dry brush reaches into the grooves without scratching the surface.
How often should you oil olive wood?
Once or twice a year is enough for most pieces. Put a few drops of olive oil or a natural wood oil on a soft cloth and rub it gently into the grain, then wipe away anything left on the surface. Oiling feeds the wood, deepens its golden color and brings out the flowing grain. Pieces kept in dry indoor air may enjoy a light oiling a little more often.
What should you avoid with olive wood?
- Water and soaking. Never leave olive wood in water or wash it in a dishwasher. Long contact with water can cause cracking.
- Direct heat. Keep pieces away from radiators, stoves and heating vents, which dry the wood too fast.
- Long direct sun. Hours of strong sunlight can fade the natural color over time.
- Harsh chemicals. Skip soaps, solvents and spray polishes. Natural oil is all olive wood needs.
Why does olive wood last so long?
Olive wood is dense, oil rich and naturally resistant to wear, which is why it has been treasured in the Holy Land since Biblical times. Its tight grain holds fine carved detail and grows smoother and warmer with handling. A well kept olive wood cross or statue can pass from parent to child and stay beautiful for many decades.
How do you care for olive wood rosaries and bracelets?
Keep worn pieces dry, wipe them now and then with a soft cloth, and store them in a small pouch or box away from heat. The natural oils from your hands actually help the beads, so daily prayer use keeps them smooth and rich in color over the years.
Frequently asked questions
How do I care for an olive wood cross or statue?
Dust it with a soft dry cloth, keep it away from heat, water and long sun, and rub in a little olive or natural wood oil once or twice a year. Never soak it or wash it in a dishwasher, and it will last for generations.
Can I get olive wood wet?
Avoid it. A barely damp cloth is fine for cleaning, but never soak olive wood or leave it in water, because long contact with water can cause the wood to crack.
What oil is best for olive wood?
Natural olive oil works well, and any food safe natural wood oil is also good. Apply a small amount with a soft cloth, then wipe off the excess so the surface is not sticky.
How do I stop olive wood from cracking?
Keep it away from direct heat and very dry air, do not let it sit in water, and oil it once or twice a year. Feeding the grain with a little oil is the best way to keep olive wood from drying and cracking.
Does olive wood need to be sealed or varnished?
No. Olive wood is best left natural so its grain and scent can show. A light coat of natural oil is all it needs, and varnish or lacquer would hide the very beauty that makes it special.
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