How to care for and maintain seal carving materials - To keep your precious seal materials beautiful for a long time -
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Introduction
The "seal carving stone" that is essential for seal carving is an artistic material that can be used for a long time once obtained. However, if not properly cared for, problems such as cracks and discoloration can occur.
In particular, the value of seals used to accompany calligraphy works and high-quality seal materials for collections increases when they are kept in good condition.
In this article, we will explain how to care for and store seal carving stone in a way that even beginners can easily follow. Make sure you understand the key points to ensure that you can enjoy your stone for a long time.
What causes seal carving stone to deteriorate?
First, it is important to understand the causes of stone deterioration.
Main causes of deterioration
Dryness and humidity changes : Sudden changes in temperature and humidity can cause stone to crack.
Direct sunlight : Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause color fading and surface deterioration.
Oil and dirt : Oils from your hands and ink from the seal may leave stains on the surface.
Improper storage methods : Stacking or placing in contact with hard objects can make the product more susceptible to chipping.
Proper care and storage are key to preventing this type of damage.
Basic care methods for seal carving stone
1. Gently wipe off after use
After engraving, ink, dust, and oils from your hands will adhere to the stone. Gently wipe them off with a soft, dry cloth or a brush cloth.
Red ink in particular contains oil, so if left on for too long it may stain.
2. Avoid washing with water
Washing with water may look clean at first glance, but depending on the type of stone, it may absorb water and cause deterioration from the inside. Generally, washing with water should be avoided.
If the stain is severe, wipe it gently with a damp cloth and then immediately remove any moisture with a dry cloth.
3. Dry regularly in a well-ventilated place
Humidity can cause mold and discoloration, so we recommend leaving it in a shady, well-ventilated place for a few hours about once a month to remove moisture.
Correct storage method for seal carving stone materials
1. Store in a special seal box
Store your seal in a box with a soft lining, such as a cloth-covered case or wooden box, designed specifically for seals. This will protect the seal from scratches and shocks.
2. Avoid high temperatures and direct sunlight
Avoid locations that are exposed to direct sunlight or heat from air conditioners or stoves. A location with little natural light and a stable temperature is ideal.
3. Do not stack seal materials on top of each other
Stacking multiple seals can cause scratches and chips, so store them in a case with separate compartments or wrap each seal individually in soft cloth.
How to care for special seal materials
High-quality seal materials (Tianhuang stone, chicken blood stone, etc.)
It is best to handle rare and valuable seal materials with gloves and tweezers, and avoid touching them with your bare hands. Also, occasionally applying a small amount of special stone oil (mineral oil) will help maintain their beautiful luster.
Seal material for calligraphy works
For seals that are used daily, you should be especially careful about leaving ink behind, as they are used frequently. By making it a habit to clean them after use, you can keep the seal impression beautiful.
Things you should not do
Wiping with wet tissues or chemicals (the ingredients can have a negative effect on the stone)
Rub with too much force (this may cause fine scratches on the surface)
Store in the refrigerator (humidity differences can cause condensation and crack the stone)
summary
Seal carving stone is a valuable artistic material that can be used for decades if properly cared for and stored. Small daily efforts will help preserve the beautiful impression and the lifespan of the stone.
For those who love calligraphy and seal carving, the seal material is a part of the work and a partner in the art. Please treat it with care and enjoy its charm for a long time.