How to Oil Woodwork

Last Updated: March 29, 2019 Approved

Oiling woodwork is a nourishing alternative to modern varnishes. It protects and beautifies wood while creating a water-resistant finish and makes the grain of the wood stand out. Whether using Linseed, Tung oil or other types of oil, you can learn how to oil woodwork in just a few easy steps.

Steps

1
Sand the wood to a smooth finish with extra fine 220 grit sandpaper.
2
Apply a liberal amount (unless you're using Danish oil, which needs to be applied conservatively so the wood can soak it all up)of oil directly to a small section of your wood.
- Tung, Linseed, Danish, Teak or Mineral oil can be used with this wood oiling technique.
- Mineral oil is perfect for wood projects that need to be food-safe, like cutting boards.
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3
Rub the oil into the wood with a clean, dry soft cloth.
- Make sure to rub the oil in the direction of the natural grain of the wood. Rub hard to work the oil well into the wood.
4
Continue this process until all the wood is covered.
5
Let the oil stay on the wood for approximately 30 minutes.
6
Remove any excess oil from the wood with a dry cloth.
7
Allow the wood to stand for at least 24 hours.
8
Pour a liberal amount of oil onto a piece of 600 to 800 grit wet-and-dry sandpaper.
9
Work the oil into the wood again using the sandpaper. This helps to push the oil deep into the pores and really starts to enhance the appearance of the wood's natural grain.
10
Repeat this process until you've covered the entire surface of the wood with the oiled sandpaper.
11
Wipe off any excess oil from the wood with dry cloth.
12
Allow to stand for another 24 hours.
13
Repeat the sandpaper finish as many times as you like, until the desired luster is achieved. Just make sure to remove any excess oil and allowing the wood to dry for 24 hours between each coat.
- It may take several days for the oil to cure completely.

Community Q&A

Question

Will glue stick to oiled wood?

Community Answer

Yes, but not very well. Try sanding the area before applying glue for a better hold.

Warnings

Applying oil to woodwork will enhance the natural grain, but can also emphasize any scratches or blotches on the surface of the wood. Pay close attention to flaws and be sure to prepare the wood carefully before applying any oil.

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Always allow oily rags to dry flat on a non-flammable surface and in a well ventilated place. Rags that are crumpled or rolled up can generate heat through oxidation and may become a fire hazard.

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