I applied 4 coats of tung oil (the stuff thinned with mineral spirits, not 100% pure) to a small cherry table top, allowing 24 hrs in between each coat. After a couple days I applied 3 coats of regular clear paste wax, buffing in between. The finish isn’t very good, has swirl marks and other imperfections. I think my error was that I didn’t wait long enough for the tung oil to cure.
Q1:Is that right?
Q2: I would like to remove the wax and apply a different finish, can I use mineral spirits or pint thinner to remove the wax, while not harming the tung oil? Or is there a sounder approach?
A million thanks for your help!
Replies
I think is is quite possible that the tung oil has not fully cured. Not 100% sure but, I think, mineral spirits (paint thinner) will remove the wax. Depending on its state of cure, it may also remove some tung oil.
I think that I would remove the wax and let the table set for a week or two. Then give it a light sanding and apply a more durable film finish. Starting with a coat of de-waxed shellac might be advisable to assure good bonding with the cured tung oil.
Hi,
Scraping's the best way to remove wax. Using solvents will drive the wax into the wood, oil or not. Sanding creates heat that also pushes the wax into the finish.
Suggestions for a finish; wet sand with penetrating oil. Tung oil qualifies. Start with 800 wet/dry paper to remove dirt, 1000 to finish. It'll give you a great look.
If shine's what you're after, once the oil dries, wet sand with either mineral spirits or water & dish detergent. I prefer soapy water, less chance of contamination. Mineral spirits might make the finish cloudy if there's wax residue on the wood.
Last, go to the "library" section on Highland Woodworking's site. There are good articles on wax and other finishes, printed by my favorite furniture re-finisher, Alan Noel. Oh, the tung oil is in the wood, not on it so there's nothing you can do about it
Good luck,
Mikaol
Thanks!
Thanks for the tips and reference.
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