Related Articles. Sam Wooten May 13, Tung Oil by Real Milk Paint. Click for proposition 65 Warning. The surface should be entirely free of debris before you begin applying the oil.

We use cookies to make wikiHow great. By using our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Cookie Settings. Learn why people trust wikiHow. Download Article Explore this Article parts. Tips and Warnings. Things You'll Need. Related Articles. Part 1 of Clean the wood surface with a damp cloth. Wet the cloth with warm water and wring out the excess moisture. Wipe down the wood using long, linear strokes or smooth circles, working against the grain.

A good wipedown also serves to raise the wood grain, which makes sanding more effective and results in a smoother overall finish.

Strip any existing finish with trisodium phosphate TSP. Mix 2 tablespoons Sand the surface thoroughly. Run a square of high-grit sandpaper around grit or finer over the outer face of the wood using tight circles.

This will smooth out imperfections and inconsistencies in the grain. Wipe down the sanded wood. Go over the surface with your cleaning cloth once more to sweep away the dust generated by sanding. The surface should be entirely free of debris before you begin applying the oil. If the wood is damp, allow it to dry to the touch before proceeding. Any dust left behind may create imperfections in the finish. Cover your work area with a dropcloth or tarp.

This extra layer will serve as a protective buffer between the wood and its surrounding surfaces. With it in place, you'll be able to work quickly and efficiently without worrying about making an oily mess. When you're finished, simply take your cover outside and spray it off. You can also stretch out a few sheets of newspaper if you don't have a tarp or dropcloth on hand. Rich natural oils like tung oil can leave permanent stains if they find their way onto absorbent materials. Part 2 of Thin the tung oil with a solvent.

Stir together equal parts oil and mineral spirits, turpentine, or organic citrus solvent in a spacious container. Cutting the oil with a solvent makes it easier to apply in multiple thin coats, which will in turn provide a glossier finish and greater durability than a single thick one. While the oil itself is naturally non-toxic, chemical solvents can leach into foods that come into contact with the surface, making them harmful to ingest.

Use a clean, lint-free rag to soak up a small amount of tung oil. A simple way to do this without making a mess is to press the folded rag over the mouth of the bottle, then turn the bottle upside down. The oil that escapes will create a neat, round spot and keep your hands clean. You can also use a wide-tipped bristle or sponge brush to apply tung oil. Rub the oil onto the wood in the direction of the grain. Going with the grain brings out more of its subtle natural patterns.

Aim for even coverage across the entire surface and continue polishing the wood continuously until the initial slickness and shine begin to disappear. Apply the oil liberally. Unfinished wood absorbs a lot of oil, so you may be surprised by how little is left later on.

Let the tung oil sit for at least half an hour. As it sits, it will begin to penetrate deep into the wood grain, where it will eventually solidify.

Avoid touching the wet finish in the meantime. If possible, leave the item alone for full hours. More resting time means better absorption.

Any accidental scratches or dents made while the tung oil is still fresh may be noticeable in the completed finish. Wipe off the excess oil. After the oil has had plenty of time to soak in, glide a clean rag over the surface of the item to clear away any remaining traces. Take a look at the new finish. Part 3 of Let the wood rest for days between coats. Tung oil cures slowly. For best results, be prepared to wait up to a week after each application to ensure that the followup coat bonds securely to the previous one.

That way, it will have a chance to harden separately. The more coats you put on, the darker and more lustrous the finish will become and the more protected it will be. Take your time and focus on applying each coat correctly. Sand the wood lightly before applying the next coat.

Free returns for six months. Learn more. Real Milk Paint Pure Tung Oil is exactly that: pure tung oil with no additives or petroleum distillates. This is the highest grade tung oil available, with a light honey tone that adds brilliance to any wood. Tung is one of our favorite finishes, as it polymerizes for a highly durable, water-resistant finish, and is FDA approved for food conatact.

Tung oil dries to a matte finish, and will not build up a coating but will rather seal the wood at the surface. It will not blister and peel, and does not mold or darken with time like linseed oil. Pure Tung Oil is honey golden in color and adds a rich look to wooden surfaces. Dark Tung Oil has the look of strong coffee. The darker tint is imparted by a resinous hydrocarbon that adds to the complexity of the finished look. We especially like the way Dark Tung Oil brings out the open grain of oak, highlighting the natural beauty of the wood.

Tung oil is an excellent finish for outdoor furniture, and a great natural choice for protecting your deck. Likewise, it's a great choice for floors, chairs and countertops.

Very porous surfaces can absorb pure oil, but for a natural finish with better penetration and quicker drying times, mix with Citrus Solvent. Can be used on any wood, and even brick or concrete.

Real Milk Paint goes to great lengths to provide the freshest, highest quality Tung Oil available. They package just before shipping so you receive the freshest product possible.

The only way your likely to get a fresher product is by wringing out the tung nut yourself. For a light seal, apply coats.

For heavy-wear, apply at least 6 coats. Coverage, one coat undiluted 8 oz. Gallon sq. Tung Oil is Flammable: Keep containers tightly closed away from extreme temperature changes and open flames.

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