The scales open when dry because their outer halves shrinkmore than their inner halves, and they pull away from the cone. When wet, the scales swell shut. People who make crafts from pine cones often heat the cones inan oven to make the scales open. Trying to wash off the cones willmake the scales close again.

What does it mean when a pine cone opens?

The scales of seed-bearing pine cones move in response to changes in humidity. When warm and dry the pine cone opens up to release the cone’s seeds. When it is damp or cold, the scales close up. … When wet the pine cones cells expand, when dried they shrink.

How do you keep pine cones from opening?

Preserving. After the pine cones have been fully dried, de-bugged and opened, you can spray them with a clear acrylic spray, polyurethane or spray varnish. It doesn’t have to be a heavy coat, but try to ensure the pine cone is fully and evenly covered (don’t miss the bottom).