How can I keep the rocks and sea glass that my kids and I found at the beach looking wet? Will shellac do?

Question

We're planning to cover a picture frame with all of our treasures, and we'd like to keep them looking the way we found them. Thanks!

Answer 1

I have always used tung oil on my granite countertops. It seals them perfectly, and you can sand/polish it to any degree of gloss you prefer!

It gives the counter a wet stone look, so I presume it would work on essentially any other surface.

Answer 2

shellac is terribly orange,

i'd use water clear high gloss polycrylic (acrylic clear coat sold in commercial paint stores) or regular spar varnish but coat lightly as spar varnish is a solvent base and tends to amber if too heavy.

Answer 3

put in water

Answer 4

Liberon make a product called Finishing Oil,it is safe to use on furniture,stone floors and food surfaces.Use it with protective gloves and observe safety recommendations as to the disposal of rags.I have used it on an ancient oak table for a number of years,as well as a slate floor in our kitchen.

Answer 5

I would recommend using a two-part resin product. Craft stores carry several products for this purpose that will do a great job for you.