I have not had the chance to use my purchase. We built a replica of an 1867 Victorian house in 1987. Over the years the "gingerbread" has succumbed to the elements as it was made from wood. I am duplicating this in PVC and due to the holidays and decorating I haven't had the time to begin. There are 15 2" balls on each eave gingerbread and 5-5/8" dowels. I was unable to find them in PVC so I ordered the wood ones from you. I will soak them in a sealer, let them dry then paint them with a primer and then paint with a water-resistant paint. I'll let you know how it turns out.