How to Preserve Bark

Preserving Tree Bark

Trees make special memories, and preserving the bark is one of the best ways to keep those memories alive. Here are some tips to help you get started with preserving bark:

1. Gently brush away any dirt, leaves, or bugs from the bark.
2. If you have a small section, you can submerge the bark in water for 15 minutes. Afterwards, dry the bark in the sun or a warm air dryer.
3. If the bark isn't too thick, you can freeze it. Place the bark in a Ziplock bag and freeze it for 24-36 hours.
4. If the bark is too thick to freeze, you can opt for the glycerin method. Fill a container with 50% glycerin and 50% water, and place the bark in the mixture for 24-36 hours. Afterwards, gently pour out the glycerin and air dry the bark.
5. If the bark is damp or wet, you can dry it in the oven or in a food dehydrator. Put the bark on a pans and bake at 200°F for 8-12 hours. Alternatively, use your food dehydrator for 4-6 hours.
6. You can also use silica gel, which is the same process as drying in the oven or a food dehydrator. Place the bark on a tray and bake at 190°F for 4-6 hours. Lastly, let sit for an additional 24 hours.
7. Once dry, you can seal and protect the bark with an acrylic sealant or spray. This will ensure the bark won't lose its color and shape.

Preserving Bark the Easy Way

Do you want to preserve a piece of bark for a creative project? Here’s a simple guide to help you do just that.

Step 1: Prepare the Bark

Gently brush away any dirt or dust from the bark so it'll be easier to work with. Use a soft bristle brush, such as an organic bristled toothbrush.

Step 2: Prepare the Preservation Materials

Gather the items you'll need to preserve the bark. You'll need wax paper, a few sheets of absorbent paper (such as paper towels), several empty newspapers, and a television guide.

Step 3: Layer the Materials Together

• Lay the wax paper flat on a table.
• Place the absorbent paper on top of the wax paper.
• Place the bark in the center of the absorbent paper.
• Cover the bark with the empty newspapers.
• Lay the television guide on top of the newspapers.

Step 4: Heat the Preservation Materials

Place the entire stack of materials near a heater, making sure the heat is not too close to the bark. This will help to preserve it and make it easier to work with.

Step 5: Store the Preserved Bark

Once the bark has cooled down, it is ready to be stored and used in your project. Place it in a safe place, preferably in a sealed container away from direct sunlight.