Tung oil is a great choice for wood finishes, providing a beautiful matte or satin sheen that brings out the wood’s natural grain and color. It’s also a great choice for making furniture and cabinetry water resistant. But when it comes to applying tung oil, it is important to use the right type of solvent to help it penetrate the wood. Citrus solvent is a great choice for tung oil because it helps the oil to penetrate the wood, while still leaving a protective finish. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of citrus solvent for tung oil.
Choose the Right Citrus Solvent
When it comes to citrus solvent for tung oil, you want to make sure you choose a product that is specifically designed for use on wood. Make sure the product you choose is designed to penetrate the wood and protect it from moisture and other elements. It's also important to pick a product that is free of harsh chemicals and other additives, as these can damage the wood over time.
Prepare the Wood
Before you apply the citrus solvent for tung oil, it’s important to prepare the wood. Start by sanding the wood with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any dirt, debris, and oils. This will help ensure that the tung oil is able to penetrate the wood evenly and provide a smooth, even finish. If you’re working with a piece of furniture or cabinetry that has been previously finished, you may need to use a chemical stripper to remove the existing finish before sanding.
Apply the Citrus Solvent
Once the wood is prepared, it’s time to apply the citrus solvent. Start by applying a generous amount of the solvent to a clean rag or brush, and then applying it to the wood in a thin, even layer. Be sure to work in small sections at a time, and allow the solvent to penetrate the wood for several minutes before moving on to the next section. Continue this process until the entire surface of the wood has been covered with the solvent.
Apply the Tung Oil
Once the citrus solvent has been applied, it’s time to apply the tung oil. Start by pouring a generous amount of tung oil onto a clean rag, and then apply it to the wood in a thin, even layer. Work in small sections at a time, and allow the oil to penetrate the wood for several minutes before moving on to the next section. Continue this process until the entire surface of the wood has been covered with the oil.
Allow the Oil to Cure
Once the tung oil has been applied, it’s important to allow it to cure for at least 24 hours before using the furniture or cabinetry. This will give the oil time to penetrate the wood and provide a protective finish. After the oil has cured, you can wipe away any excess with a clean rag or brush.
Finishing Touches
Once the tung oil has cured, you can add a few finishing touches to give the wood a beautiful matte or satin sheen. Start by applying a thin coat of beeswax or wax-based polish to give the wood a soft, lustrous finish. You can also apply a coat of paste wax to provide a glossy finish. Finally, you can buff the wood with a soft cloth to give it a beautiful sheen.
Using citrus solvent for tung oil is a great way to get the most out of your wood finishes. By following these tips, you can ensure that your tung oil will penetrate the wood deeply and provide a beautiful, protective finish. Once you’ve finished applying the tung oil, all that’s left is to sit back and enjoy the beauty of your wood finishes.