Introduction
Natural oil finishes have become incredibly popular amongst hobbyist woodworkers due to their ease of application, durability, and beautiful low luster sheen. However, the market for oil finishes has become saturated with a wide range of products, confusing consumers with various labels and claims. In this article, we will cut through the nonsense and provide you with the knowledge to choose the right oil finish for your next woodworking project.
Understanding Boiled Linseed Oil
The most common oil finish used by woodworkers is boiled linseed oil. But what exactly is linseed? Linseed is another name for flaxseed, known for its nutritional benefits. However, boiled linseed oil is not meant for consumption. Centuries ago, it was discovered that applying linseed oil to wood not only enhanced its appearance but also offered protection against moisture and dirt. The problem was that it took days for each coat to dry and often never fully cured, leaving the wood sticky. To solve this issue, linseed oil was boiled, resulting in quicker polymerization. However, modern boiled linseed oil is not actually boiled; it contains metallic dryers to speed up drying time. It’s important to note that the addition of these dryers makes it unsuitable for consumption. While boiled linseed oil dries faster than raw linseed oil, it still requires multiple thin coats to effectively protect the wood long-term. It’s also necessary to maintain the finish by periodically adding more oil, as the luster may dull over time. Additionally, boiled linseed oil will yellow and can even turn rancid and black under certain conditions, making it less suitable for cutting boards and bowls.
Exploring Tung Oil
Tung oil is another natural oil finish commonly used in woodworking. Contrary to its name, tung oil does not come from a tree named “tung.” It is extracted from the nuts of the tung tree. Tung oil has a rich history and was even mentioned by Confucius, who referred to it as “wood oil.” Marco Polo also claimed that the Chinese used it to waterproof their boats, although his credibility is questionable. Pure tung oil, unlike boiled linseed oil, doesn’t contain any drying agents, resulting in a slower drying time. However, it’s not as slow as raw linseed oil. Tung oil is more stable over time and doesn’t yellow or turn rancid like boiled linseed oil. Nevertheless, applying tung oil requires more coats and longer drying times compared to boiled linseed oil. It provides moderate water resistance, but it still doesn’t offer the same level of protection as varnish. It’s important to be cautious when purchasing products labeled as tung oil, as many are actually mixtures that contain only a small amount of pure tung oil, often combined with petroleum distillates or mineral spirits. In some cases, it may even be a polyurethane-based wiping varnish marketed as tung oil.
Unveiling Danish Oil
Danish Oil, despite its name, isn’t from Denmark and isn’t purely oil. It is a blend of tung or boiled linseed oil, polyurethane, and mineral spirits. Some brands may add additional ingredients to make wild claims about their product’s abilities. However, you can create your own Danish Oil by simply mixing these three ingredients together. Danish Oil penetrates wood like natural oil but provides more protection due to the presence of polyurethane. However, achieving similar results can be accomplished by applying a few coats of significantly less expensive boiled linseed oil and then using thinned polyurethane as a top coat. While Danish Oil is a decent finish, it’s important to carefully read the label, as some brands may market the same product under different names, such as teak oil, to increase its perceived exoticness.
Exploring Mineral Oil
Mineral oil stands apart from other natural oil finishes due to its unique characteristics. Although it is not technically an oil finish in the same sense, mineral oil is commonly used as a finish for cutting boards and bowls. Interestingly, mineral oil is sold in drugstores as a remedy for constipation. While consuming other natural oil finishes may have negative effects, mineral oil acts as a gentle laxative. As a wood finish, mineral oil is primarily used for its ability to enhance the wood’s appearance and repel moisture. It is an excellent choice for cutting boards and bowls because it doesn’t go rancid, does not yellow over time, and is easy to reapply. However, one drawback of mineral oil is its lack of longevity, as it will require more frequent reapplication compared to other finishes.
Choosing the Right Oil Finish
After exploring the different natural oil finishes available, it’s essential to assess your project’s specific needs. If you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective finish that provides adequate protection, boiled linseed oil is a reliable choice. For those seeking a more stable finish that doesn’t yellow or turn rancid, tung oil is a suitable option. Danish Oil provides the convenience of a pre-mixed finish, while mineral oil is an excellent choice for edible items like cutting boards and bowls. Remember to read labels carefully and be cautious of products labeled as tung oil, as they may not contain significant amounts of pure tung oil.
In conclusion, natural oil finishes offer a range of benefits for woodworkers, including ease of application, durability, and a beautiful low luster sheen. By understanding the different types of natural oil finishes available, you can confidently choose the right finish for your woodworking project. Whether it’s boiled linseed oil, tung oil, Danish Oil, or mineral oil, each finish has its advantages and considerations. Take your time to assess the specific requirements of your project and enjoy the process of applying a natural oil finish that will enhance the beauty of your wood for years to come.
