Collecting and Caring for Tiki Statues
Tiki statues are popular decorations in Polynesian cultures with special designs that give a tropical feel to a room. They add a touch of exotic flair to your space. Whether you're new or experienced, it's important to care for your tiki statues to make sure they last a long time. In this article, we'll discuss the basics of collecting and caring for tiki statues.
Types of Tiki Statues
Tiki statues come in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials. The most common types are wooden, stone, and resin.
At Tikimaster.com we use 4 main type of lumbers, ranging from high quality to more simple lumber
1) Koa
2) Monkeypod
3) Royal palm
4) Albesia
Wooden tiki gods are typically hand-carved and can range from small to large sizes. People often make stone tiki statues from volcanic rock and know them for their durability. Resin tiki statues offer a more affordable option and come in a variety of sizes and designs.
Collecting Tiki Statues
You should keep several considerations in mind when amassing tiki statues. First, decide on a theme or style that you want to focus on. This could be traditional Hawaiian tiki statues, Polynesian-inspired designs, or even modern interpretations.
Next, consider the size and material of the statues you want to collect. Some collectors enjoy gathering different sizes and materials, while others prefer to collect only one type.
Another important aspect of collecting tiki statues is authenticity. To acquire genuine wooden tiki gods, make sure to carry out comprehensive studies and buy from credible sellers. Resin tiki figures are a cheaper option. Make sure to check for good quality and craftsmanship before buying.
Caring for Tiki Statues
Proper care is essential for maintaining the beauty and integrity of your tiki idols. Knowing the type of wood is essential when applying a treatment to your art pieces. At Tikimaster.com we work with 4 main type of lumber: Monkeypod, Koa, palm and albesia.
The next question to ask your self is if you are protecting it for indoor or outdoor use? For indoor projects, oil-based products work best. We only discuss about our own experiences and don't recommend any products per se.
1) PPG (a.k.a Sikkens): our go-to outdoor product for our Monkeypod or palm carvings. We use the colorless window and door treatment. The first coat goes deep into the grain, let it sit for 24 hours before applying the 2nd coat. The 2nd coat is where magic happens, the grain will come out naturally.
2) Howard Orange Oil: we use orange oil on 80% of wood carvings, not only to clean them but also to nourish them.
3) Milsek Lemon oil: this lemon oil is used on all our high end koa pieces. Milsek give a very nice shine and brings the grain out.
Oil is easy to use, but it dries out over time, so you need to reapply it regularly. PPG on the other hand will last for at least 2 years if outside.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your tiki figures out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Dust your statues regularly with a soft cloth.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on your statues, as they can damage the finish.
- Protect and enhance wooden tiki statues by applying wax or oil to maintain their natural beauty.
- If you display your tiki statues outdoors, make sure to bring them inside during inclement weather to prevent damage.
Displaying Tiki Statues
Tiki idols can add a unique touch to any room or outdoor space. When displaying your statues, consider the overall aesthetic and theme of the space. A large tiki statue can be the main focal point in a living room. A small tiki statue can add a fun touch to a garden or patio.
Conclusion
Tiki gods are pretty art pieces with cultural meaning that can bring a tropical vibe to any place. Follow these tips to collect and care for tiki statues. By following these steps, your wooden sculptures will last for many years. Have a great time on your collecting adventure!