How To Preserve Pinecones: 15 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Preserve Pinecones: 3 Easy Steps PDF download Download Article Follow the pine cone preservation process from baking to painting Co-authored by Amy Guerrero

Last Updated: August 9, 2025 Approved

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  • Soaking the Pinecones
    • |
  • Baking the Pinecones
    • |
  • Finishing the Pinecones
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
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This article was co-authored by Amy Guerrero. Amy Guerrero is an Arts and Crafts Specialist and the Owner of Sunshine Craft Co., a crafting studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. Amy specializes in macrame, DIY crafting, and teaching fiber arts. She offers monthly in-person and online workshops along with having developed a range of DIY craft kits for at-home projects. Amy holds a BS in Industrial Design from Philadelphia University. She worked as a graphic designer before starting her own business. Sunshine Craft Co. is a creative hub that offers a wide range of workshops, tools, and resources for any craft project to inspire creativity and community engagement. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 13 testimonials and 90% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 380,543 times.

It's hard to top the rustic charm of crafts made with pinecones. But you don't need to head to the craft store to get your supplies -- fallen pinecones are often available in your yard, local park, or other wooded areas. Unfortunately, pinecones that you find outdoors are often dirty and filled with tiny bugs, which may cause them to deteriorate sooner. With a little bit of cleaning and drying, however, you can help them last longer. If you want them to last for the long haul, preserve them even further by sealing them with varnish, paint, or wax.

Preserving Pine Cones

  1. Remove any debris in the cones with a pair of tweezers or brush.
  2. Soak the pinecones for 20-30 minutes in a 2:1 water and vinegar solution.
  3. Place the pinecones on newspaper and let them dry overnight.
  4. Bake the pinecones on a parchment-lined sheet for 30 minutes at 200 to 250°F (94 to 122°C).
  5. Leave the cones in the oven until they’ve opened up, then transfer them to a rack until cool.
  6. Finish the pinecones with a non-yellowing spray varnish, marine varnish, or colored paint.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Soaking the Pinecones

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  1. Step 1 Collect some pinecones. 1 Collect some pinecones. You can use ones that are already opened or those that are closed. Closed pinecones will open up when they dry during the baking process.
    • Store bought pinecones are already clean and ready to use.
  2. Step 2 Remove any debris caught inside the pinecones. 2 Remove any debris caught inside the pinecones. This includes things like seeds, moss, and pine needles. You can do this with a pair of tweezers or a brush. Don't worry about being too precise, though; soaking the pinecones will help clean them further.[1] Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Prepare a solution of water and vinegar. 3 Prepare a solution of water and vinegar. Fill a sink, tub, or bucket with two parts water and one part white vinegar. The amount of water and vinegar you end up using depends on how many pinecones you're going to soak and the size of your container.[2]
    • If you prefer, you can use a solution of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water and 1 teaspoon of mild dish soap.
  4. Step 4 Soak the pinecones for 20 to 30 minutes. 4 Soak the pinecones for 20 to 30 minutes. You need the pinecones to remain submerged during this step. If they don't stay down, weigh them down with a wet, heavy towel, a pot lid, or even a dinner plate.[3] The pinecones may close up during this step. Don't worry -- they'll open up again when they dry.[4]
  5. Step 5 Transfer the pinecones to newspaper and let them dry overnight. 5 Transfer the pinecones to newspaper and let them dry overnight. Be sure to leave them in a well-ventilated area, as this will help increase airflow. If you don't have any newspaper on hand, use paper bags or an old towel instead.[5]
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Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Baking the Pinecones

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  1. Step 1 Preheat your oven to 200 to 250°F (94 to 122°C). 1 Preheat your oven to 200 to 250°F (94 to 122°C). You don't need the oven to get very hot.[6] The pinecones just need some gentle heat to help dry them fully, so they'll open again after soaking.
  2. Step 2 Set the pinecones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 2 Set the pinecones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you don't have any parchment paper, you can use aluminum foil instead. Leave some space between each pinecone. This allows the hot air to flow better between them and gives them room to open up.
  3. Step 3 Bake the pinecones until they open up. 3 Bake the pinecones until they open up.[7] This may take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.[8] Check the pinecones frequently, though, so that they don't catch on fire. They're ready when they're shiny and fully opened.
    • If you prefer, you can leave the pinecones out to air dry so they open up again. However, it can take two to three days for them to open, which makes baking a good idea if you don't have much time.
  4. Step 4 Transfer the pinecones to a wire cooling rack. 4 Transfer the pinecones to a wire cooling rack. Use a pair of oven mitts, tongs, or even a soup ladle to do this. Be careful while moving the pinecones; they'll be very fragile.
  5. Step 5 Allow the pinecones to cool for at least 10 minutes. 5 Allow the pinecones to cool for at least 10 minutes. Once they're cool, you can paint them, display them, or seal them further. They will have a shiny coating on them, which is just melted sap. This can act as a natural preservative.[9] If you want to preserve them further, you should finish them.
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Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Finishing the Pinecones

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  1. Step 1 Prepare your workspace and decide on a finishing method. 1 Prepare your workspace and decide on a finishing method. Whether you're spraying, painting, or dipping the pinecones in a sealing product, you'll want to cover your counter or table with newspaper. If you're using a spray sealer, it's even better to work outside. Once you have your space set up, go ahead with your chosen sealing method.
  2. Step 2 Spray the pinecones if you want something quick and easy. 2 Spray the pinecones if you want something quick and easy. Choose a non-yellowing spray varnish.[10] Lay the pinecones on their sides, then spray them using an even coat. Wait for the pinecones to dry for 10 minutes before rotating them and spraying the other side. Let the sealer dry for at least a half hour before applying another coat.
    • Spray sealers come in many different finishes: matte, satin, and glossy. Choose the one that you like the best. The matte usually offers the most natural look, though.
    • If you don't have any spray varnish, you can try using hairspray instead.
  3. Step 3 Use a marine varnish if you want something more durable. 3 Use a marine varnish if you want something more durable. Purchase a marine varnish from a hardware or home improvement store. Put on a pair of disposable gloves and hold the pinecone by the tip. Use a cheap, disposable brush with stiff bristles to apply the varnish all over the pinecone, except for the bottom. Let the varnish dry for at least 30 minutes, then hold it by its sides, and coat the bottom and tip. Leave the pinecone to dry on its side.
    • You can apply more than one coat of marine varnish, but you have to let the previous coat dry fully.
    • Alternatively, you can tie some thread to the top of the pinecone, then dip it into the varnish. Lift it out, and let the excess varnish drip off. Hang the pinecone by the string to dry.
  4. Step 4 Dip the pinecones in paint or varnish if you want a thicker coating. 4 Dip the pinecones in paint or varnish if you want a thicker coating. Wrap some string or thin wire around the top of a pinecone. Dip the pinecone into a can of paint or varnish. Lift the pinecone out, and hold it above the can for about a minute to let the excess paint/varnish drip back. Use the string or wire to hang the pinecone someplace where it can dry.[11]
    • Place a newspaper or tray under the pinecone to catch any drips of paint or varnish.
    • Keep in mind that this method may cause the pinecones to close up again.
    • If the paint or varnish is too thick, thin it with water. Use 4 parts paint or varnish to 1 part water.
  5. Step 5 Dip the pinecones in beeswax as an alternative to varnish or paint. 5 Dip the pinecones in beeswax as an alternative to varnish or paint. Melt enough solid beeswax in a crockpot to fully submerge the pinecone. Tie a string around the tip of the pinecone, and hold it to dip the pinecone into the melted wax. Lift the pinecone out, and immediately dip it into a bucket of cold water.[12] You may have to repeat this step a few times to get an even coverage.[13]
    • Heat the wax in the slow cooker on high for 2 to 3 hours or until it melts completely. If you don't have a slow cooker, you can also melt the beeswax in a double boiler on the stove.
    • Let the wax set on the pinecone for at least 3 minutes before setting it down.
    • The more you dip the pinecone into wax, the more visible the wax will become. You may wind up with a yellow or white pinecone.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question Is baking the pinecones necessary for preserving them? Community Answer Community Answer No, baking is not an essential step. Pinecones open as they dry up, and baking is a quick and easy way to dry them out. You can also wait for the pinecones to dry naturally, although that will be a much slower process. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 34
  • Question How do you clean the sticky pitch off the dried pinecone? Community Answer Community Answer If there's sticky sap on the pinecones, you may want to soak them a little longer in the vinegar solution. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 12
  • Question How do you get pinecones to stand if you're using them as place card holders? Community Answer Community Answer It often helps to slice off a bit of the bottom of the pinecones to create a flat surface. Otherwise, you may want to hot glue the pinecones onto some type of base, such as a small piece of cardboard that's been painted. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 4 Helpful 13
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • Use your preserved pinecones in wreaths or as vase fillers. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
  • Allow the sealer to dry and cure completely before using or displaying the pinecone. Read the label on your can of sealer for specific drying times and instructions. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
  • Most store-bought pinecones are already cleaned, treated for pests, and preserved. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Keep sealed pinecones away from heat and open flame. The spray sealer/varnish is flammable. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
  • Do not leave any pinecones unattended in the oven. They can heat up quickly and catch on fire. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 2
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Things You'll Need

  • Pinecones
  • Water
  • White vinegar
  • Bucket
  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper
  • Spray sealer or marine varnish
  • Disposable plastic gloves (if using marine varnish)
  • Cheap, disposable paintbrush (if using marine varnish)
  • Crockpot and beeswax (if dipping)

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References

  1. ↑ https://brendid.com/how-to-prepare-pine-cones-for-crafts/
  2. ↑ https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-to-get-the-bugs-out-of-pine-cones
  3. ↑ https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-to-get-the-bugs-out-of-pine-cones
  4. ↑ https://brendid.com/how-to-prepare-pine-cones-for-crafts/
  5. ↑ https://brendid.com/how-to-prepare-pine-cones-for-crafts/
  6. ↑ Amy Guerrero. Arts & Crafts Specialist. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ Amy Guerrero. Arts & Crafts Specialist. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ http://makeanddocrew.com/how-to-clean-pine-cones-for-crafts-see-ya-bugs/
  9. ↑ https://brendid.com/how-to-prepare-pine-cones-for-crafts/
More References (4)
  1. ↑ Amy Guerrero. Arts & Crafts Specialist. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ https://factorydirectcraft.com/factorydirectcraft_blog/paint-dipped-pinecones/
  3. ↑ https://craftingagreenworld.com/articles/how-to-hand-dipped-wax-candles/
  4. ↑ https://craftingagreenworld.com/articles/decorative-dipped-pinecones-three-methods/

About This Article

Amy Guerrero Co-authored by: Amy Guerrero Arts & Crafts Specialist This article was co-authored by Amy Guerrero. Amy Guerrero is an Arts and Crafts Specialist and the Owner of Sunshine Craft Co., a crafting studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. Amy specializes in macrame, DIY crafting, and teaching fiber arts. She offers monthly in-person and online workshops along with having developed a range of DIY craft kits for at-home projects. Amy holds a BS in Industrial Design from Philadelphia University. She worked as a graphic designer before starting her own business. Sunshine Craft Co. is a creative hub that offers a wide range of workshops, tools, and resources for any craft project to inspire creativity and community engagement. This article has been viewed 380,543 times. 205 votes - 90% Co-authors: 18 Updated: August 9, 2025 Views: 380,543 Categories: Featured Articles | Nature Crafts Article SummaryX

You can preserve your pinecones to make elegant decorations by baking them in the oven. First, remove any debris from your pinecones with a brush or tweezers. Then, mix 2 parts water and 1 part vinegar and soak your pinecones in the solution for 30 minutes to clean them. Leave them to dry overnight. In the morning, place your pinecones on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and heat them in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit until they open up. This could take between 30 minutes and 2 hours. Once they open up, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool. Then, you can paint or varnish them to give them a little extra color or shine, or leave them as they are. For more tips, including how to display your pinecones in your home, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Easter Lewis

    Easter Lewis

    Oct 2, 2017

    "I love to decorate in the fall and winter with pine cones, and often wondered how to preserve them. Thanks to..." more Rated this article:
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Amy Guerrero Co-authored by: Amy Guerrero Arts & Crafts Specialist Co-authors: 18 Updated: August 9, 2025 Views: 380,543 90% of readers found this article helpful. 205 votes - 90% Click a star to add your vote Easter Lewis

Easter Lewis

Oct 2, 2017

"I love to decorate in the fall and winter with pine cones, and often wondered how to preserve them. Thanks to..." more Rated this article: Audreen Ballard

Audreen Ballard

Oct 15, 2016

"WELL! YOU'VE GOT ME STARTED. I'm working with very small (inch or smaller) acorns and I don't want..." more Robin Smith-Gauldin

Robin Smith-Gauldin

Oct 17, 2016

"I've been crafting for decades but I'm wanting to go natural and preserve, getting my supplies from..." more Kathy Keway

Kathy Keway

Sep 18, 2016

"I really had no idea about what to soak them in. I was thinking varnish but wasn't sure that's what was..." more Betty Lupton

Betty Lupton

Apr 20, 2017

"I gathered numerous pinecones and want to store them for a Christmas project. I didn't know how to clean them..." more Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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