Care and Feeding
What are these made of? How do I care for it? What finishes are available? Most of our creations are hand crafted out of new 12 gauge sheet steel. Some of the larger pieces such as the large moose and deer are cut from 3/16" steel - for structural strength. No two items will be alike. The cutting techniques and variations in the metal finish will make each piece unique. Each piece's specific display rod size, weight, art and overall dimensions are listed with each product description under "details". These pieces are generally offered in a rusted and sealed state which we have called a marbled rust finish. We also offer a patina blue or green finish at a higher cost on a special order basis. We can provide most items in their natural "raw steel" state if desired , on request. If you would like these pieces to attain their natural rust finish, they can be left out doors and they will slowly change in their own unique way, depending on their exposure and garden conditions. The rusting process can be accellerated by applying a diluted solution of muratic acid (pool acid). The stronger the solution, the more agressive rusting. Be extremely careful with the acid solution as very dangerous to you and it will also cause damage to cement. Straight household vinegar can also be used to start the rusting process. As A Word ( or 22 ) Of Caution: THESE MAY HAVE SHARP EDGES AND YOU MAY WANT TO PLACE THEM IN AN AREA AWAY FROM WHERE CHILDREN AND PETS PLAY. Our guarantee: We guarentee they will rust! That is the nature of steel. Even though our creations are primer painted and or sealed, these treatments deteriorate over time, depending on the environmental exposure, and the natural rusting will resume. Rusting enhances the look of our creations and provides visual contrast in your home and garden through color and texture. Some larger pieces may have a great surface area that may be affected by local winds. It may be necessary to place additional support in the leward (downwind) side of the piece. This can be done by driving a piece of re-bar,"T" post, fence post or pipe behind it to keep it from flexing and damaging the weld or fatiguing the metal. Always pilot the hole before placement in the ground.