My DIY Staghorn Fern mounting on found IKEA board
I found three discarded IKEA boards one afternoon — plain, weathered, and slightly scuffed. To most people, they were nothing special. But to me, they had potential. I glued them together, clamped them tight, and left them overnight to set. The next morning, I sealed the wood with teak oil, watching its faded surface soak up the moisture and deepen into a soft golden tone. I use teak oil because it replenishes the wood’s moisture while sealing it, helping prevent rot and keeping the surface durable against water. That’s the beauty of teak oil — it revives what’s dull and gives forgotten wood a second chance.
The Appeal of Found Objects
I like finding and reusing materials because it gives them a new story. These boards once served another purpose, but with a bit of glue, patience, and oil, they became something different — something alive again. Working with my hands after spending most of the day behind a screen feels grounding. It reminds me that creativity isn’t just digital. It’s also tactile — wood grain, oil scent, the feel of sanded edges under your fingers.
Sealing with Teak Oil: Protecting and Preserving
The first step after gluing was sealing the surface. I chose teak oil because it penetrates the wood deeply while still allowing it to breathe. Unlike a thick varnish, teak oil doesn’t sit on top — it soaks in, highlighting the natural tone and texture.
Here’s why teak oil is ideal for this kind of project:
- It’s water-resistant, making it perfect for displays that might come in contact with moisture or humidity.
- It helps prevent rot and cracking, especially in softer or reclaimed wood.
- It enhances the natural color without making the finish glossy or artificial.
I applied the oil with a lint-free cloth, let it soak for a few minutes, then wiped off the excess. The result was subtle — a warm sheen that looked natural, not overworked.
If you’re working with lighter indoor wood, linseed oil can be a softer alternative. It takes longer to dry but gives a gentle, matte finish. Teak oil, on the other hand, is faster-drying and a bit tougher — perfect for humid climates like South Florida.
Creating the Moss and Fern Mount
Once the board was sealed, I added a layer of sphagnum moss to the back. I like using moss because it helps retain just enough moisture for ferns and epiphytes without soaking the wood. After moistening it slightly, I placed the fern right on top.
To secure it, I added two small hooks near the top corners, then wrapped wire around in an X pattern, finishing with a horizontal line to keep the plant firm but not tight. The goal was balance — snug enough to hold, but gentle enough not to damage the roots or fronds.
This method creates a floating, organic display — like a small vertical garden you can hang anywhere. Over time, the moss blends into the wood, and the fern establishes itself naturally.
Why I Used Teak Oil
The reason I sealed the board wasn’t just for looks. By coating it with teak oil, I can water the moss and fern freely without worrying about the wood rotting. The oil acts like a natural barrier, letting moisture move without letting it settle. It keeps the wood durable and gives the piece a soft, living quality — part sculpture, part garden.
Why I Love This Process
There’s something deeply satisfying about turning something overlooked into something beautiful. It’s not just about saving materials — it’s about giving attention to small things. The process of sanding, sealing, wiring, and arranging slows you down in the best way.
After hours in front of a computer, this kind of hands-on work reconnects me with texture and patience. Every mark, every oil stain tells its own quiet story.
Sansefuria