TRaw Linseed Oil has been used over the centuries as an oil finish for wood, but has now been superseded by other more durable oil finishes and is not suitable as a finish for furniture or floors. One of the main uses of Raw Linseed Oil in the Woodfinishing Industry is as a lubricant in the French Polishing Trade. Linseed Oil is still used to oil cricket bats. It may be used in a blend with other oils for various purposes, but check compatability Linseed oil is a component in glazing putty and may be used to soften hardened putty. in its own right, Linseed Oil is very slow drying.
Application
Raw Linseed Oil may be used on new or aged timber. Always test Linseed Oil on an off-cut of timber or an inconspicuous area to check colour and finish is as desired before oiling the whole article. If the timber has been previously coated, remove the old coating with either Mylands Special De-waxing solution (for wax finishes) or paint and varnish remover (for lacquer finishes). Clean, dry and sand the timber – ensuring all dust is removed. Do not use at temperatures below 15°C or in high humidity. For ease of application, the first coats of Raw Linseed Oil may be thinned with Pure Turpentine, 09 702 9148, (up to 30%). Or conversely the viscosity may be reduced by standing the container in a bowl of hot water, but do not both thin and heat. Linseed Oil may be applied using a clean, white, lint-free cotton cloth or brush. Work the oil well into the wood and leave for 20-30 minutes before wiping off surplus with a clean lint-free cloth. (failure to wipe off surplus will prevent penetration of subsequent coats and leave a sticky surface – if surface does become sticky, remove stickiness with White Spirit, 09 899 9262, and allow to dry before proceeding). Leave for a few days and repeat the process for one or two more coats. Apply the final coat undiluted in the same manner, wiping of the excess oil. Allow to harden for a minimum of four days before use. A minimum of three coats is recommended. A light rub over with 0000 grade wire wool between coats will improve smoothness and feel of the finish.
Drying times
Drying time will be dependant on temperature, humidity and film thickness, but is slow. Allow a minimum of two days at 20°C between coats. Ensure previous coat is dry before recoating. Allow to dry for four days (or longer) before putting oiled article into use. If faster drying is desired, use Boiled Linseed Oil, 09 779 9151.
Coverage
The coverage will depend on the type and absorbency of the substrate and the application method, but should be an average of 10 – 12m² per litre.
