Maddiethekat’s Wood FAQ
When do items ship?
Most items take 1-2 days to make. They will be shipped as soon as they are complete using First Class Mail with tracking. Priority Mail is also available if you want a littler quicker delivery.
What paints do you recommend?
I mostly use acrylics. Acrylic paint markers are also great - just make sure you get ones with fine tips. Watercolors more "dyes" the wood then paints it. I have also tried colored pencils, the result is similar to watercolors where it changes colors and shows off wood grain.
You will also probably want to seal your wood and paints - please look under How should I finish the wood? in this FAQ for recommendations.
What size brushes do you use?
Like anything there are many different varieties of paint brushes. What might be a size #20 by one company is way larger from another paint brush brand. When starting you definitely have to do some trial and error in finding what brushes work for you.
On very small items you will want to use very light paint on the brush tip so that it doesn't go inside engravings. It is better to do a couple thin layers than to put too thick paint on top and ruin the tiny project. I also recommend finding a small paint brush that is better for filling in larger open areas with paint - a detail brush can take a while.
Here are size #20 detail brushes I have found that seem durable and work great for teeny tiny areas that need painting. Comes with 3.
Here is a set with a brush labeled 18/0 that I like for filling in larger areas. There are 3 labeled 18/0 in this, it is the one with the smallest brush head that I like. (But still way larger than what an 18/0 would actually be)
What size earring posts should be used?
Most can use 6mm posts. The tinier ones will need 4mm posts. I try to include which ones require the smaller posts in the product listings.
What glue do you use?
At the moment I use epoxy E6000. I have never had anything fall apart after using it as far as jewelry items and the like. You do need to make sure you apply in a ventilated area. If anyone ever finds a more natural glue that is as strong as this - please let me know!
How should I finish the wood?
My Recommendations:
Non-yellowing:
• My favorite - Deft Wood Finish - is even baby safe once dries - but can be expensive - stock up when on sale!
• Miniwax Lacquer
• Krylon Acrylic Spray
Natural: (also a favorite)
• Odie's Oil (non-toxic). Does Not work over paints. This does make wood darken some and brings out the natural grain.
I am sure there are many other ways to finish wood. But this is what I have used up to this point. I usually prefer semi-gloss or the like, but that is my personal preference.
Again, wood oils do not work over paints! But if you plan to leave the wood natural while adding some protection, than these can be great.