When I apply Boiled linseed oil, I wipe it on and wipe it in for about a minute a square foot. Then I wail about five minute and wipe off all excess.
In the past I have always waited five days before applying any final finish such as poly, shellac, or varnish. I have a project I just BLO’ed today and want to apply a wipe on poly ASAP. What do you folks think is the minimum I should wait? The work is sitting in 68 deg F, 30% humidity environment.
Chris
Replies
A conservative test is the sniff test. Its cured enough when you can no longer smell the BLO. But it shouldn't take five days I don't think, though if you can punch the temperature up 5 degrees it would help. Probably OK after 24 hours, if you are applying an traditional resin varnish or shellac. I'd wait another day for poly and until you get a full not a doubt pass on the sniff test for waterborne finishes.
In those temperatures I wait 24 hrs and I use the sniff and touch test. If I can't smell it of feel it then it's ready for finishing.
Thanks guys.
I have the piece sitting on the mantel getting toasted by the fire. I'll leave it there 48 hours and give it the sniff test.
Chris
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