Stain or Petrol / diesel for tree stump?

The Davestator

Hi folks - a few trees in the park where i spent a good porion of my youth have been cut down and i took a few trunks home to turn them into garden 'art'

I've removed the bark and sanded one of them but should i stain it, or just seal it with a clear sealer? Someone said that petrol is a nice stain????

never tried anything like this before so would like some expert advice if possible?

Trees are Silver Birch btw

recipio

One of the outdoor garden sealants would be suitable - and they come in a clear finish. Please don't use diesel, it will destroy any nearby roots if spilled and you will have the EPA on your back if they find out.

magicbastarder

the OP is not talking about treating the stump with petrol, more so treating the wood.
i've heard of using old motor oil as a stain, but not petrol.

timfromtang

The Davestator wrote: »

Hi folks - a few trees in the park where i spent a good porion of my youth have been cut down and i took a few trunks home to turn them into garden 'art'

I've removed the bark and sanded one of them but should i stain it, or just seal it with a clear sealer? Someone said that petrol is a nice stain????

never tried anything like this before so would like some expert advice if possible?

Trees are Silver Birch btw

If you felt inclined you might lavishly coat it with linseed oil a couple of coats, and give it a coat annually thereafter for an environmentally sound and durable finish.

tim

The Davestator

Thanks folks - I'll try different things on the different bits and see how it looks.