The Last Word On Tung Oil, Trust Me.......

First the bad news, Tung Oil requires a minimum of 5 coats. The good news is that application is very easy. Make it easier and buy polymerised (heated) Tung Oil. Waterlox, McCluskeys, etc. Dries faster.
Since we're finishing a flat surface, use a wood block with a cork backing to hold some 220 garnet paper paper and lightly sand the veneer. The block will ensure that you don't create low spots.Go in straight lines and don't overdo it. Wipe it clean and spread, literally slop on a coat of tung oil making sure to cover everything and evening out with the rag. That's it. Let dry 24 hours. Don't sand, just put on coats 2 and 3 and leave each to dry.
After #3 is dry, lightly sand again with 220 garnet just to level the finish. Wipe clean and put on another coat.That's 4.
Sand #4 with 320 silica, that's the grey grainy looking stuff, it has a lubricant built in. Very light sanding. Follow up with 0000 steel wool, again, very light. Don't remove the finish, just level it and get out the dust nibs. Now wipe clean and clean again, this time with a tack rag.
Put on #5 with a handi-wipe from the supermarket. It's absolutely lint free. Really great for any rubbing finish. Wipe the oil around as before but end by lightly going back and forth overlapping slightly like you were brushing and lifting the rag right at the end and bringing it back down the row so as not to leave any marks. Use good light and you'll see right away what I mean. Let dry.
Rub #5 with the 0000 steel wool and apply #6 very lightly. The wood will be reluctant to absorb any more oil so be careful not to put too much.
That's it, you're done. Gorgeous. Water and alcohol resistant and will last 100 years.


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