How To Protect Soapstone Carvings
To help reduce the.
How to protect soapstone carvings. It has been a medium for carving in cultures around the world for thousands of years. Soapstone found in areas of the Canadian Arctic largely varies in color and density. It may largely be composed of the mineral talc and is thus rich in magnesium.
Soapstone can be finished with many products. For this reason cleaning with soap and water is strongly recommended. Indiscriminate sanding will result in you losing all the lines that you worked so hard at creating.
Take care not to drop the soapstone carving because soapstone can break easily. Soapstone also called steatite is composed of the soft mineral talc which is one of the softest minerals known. I usually work outside wearing all equipment.
Enhance soapstone color with polishing and applying mineral oil. First use a dry lint-free soft cloth to rub the entire surface of your carving to get dust off. In most cases just a light dusting is necessary to keep a finished piece looking great.
Unless you are working with a power tool that throws large pieces of stone hard safety goggles and a respirator should protect your face while carving soapstone. A word to the wise. Wear non slip gloves such as latex gloves to support it and keep it clean.
It is safe to remove safety equipment while you are wet sanding. Use a fine-grade sandpaper for repairing minor surface scratches. In my experience short answer you cant protect the finish.