I am finishing a grip made of exotic burl using Tung Oil and had a couple of questions...

1. If I don't dilute/thin the first coat, am I screwed or is just more work to get the initial absorption?
2. How many coats should I put on in total? (The manufacturer, assumably in regards to wood, recommends 6 coats)
3. Do I really need to wait 24 hours between each coat?
4. I have finished a handle with Tung Oil before and used the recommended 0000 steel wool to buff out the slickness. How would sanding between coats with a 320 sandpaper work?

Thanks,

Tony

Real tung oil will not allow you to build any depth. It is mostly a penetrating oil and isn't going to have a thick high gloss look to it. So the number of coats you decide to use is really up to you. The recommendation of 6 coats is most likely what the maker feels gives adequate protection for the intended use.

If the manufacturer says to wait 24 hours between coats, well... they don't put that on the label just to mess with your head. They want you to get good results and have provided instructions that will help you do that. I'd follow them.

320 sandpaper is just going to cut into the cork. It's too coarse for this application.

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Tom -

Thanks as always for responding. The bottle actually says at least one hour between coats. I had read 24 on some web pages.

I am not trying for a buildup or a sheen but want protection so my biggest question is whether or not I am still getting penetration with the first coat at full strength. I agree that the 320 is a bit much. I am sticking with 0000 to smooth out.

Tony

Go with the advice given by the manufacturer over something on a web page somewhere.

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tung oil works fine, but it has a longer drying time than other oils put a flood coat on and wipe off excess, allow to dry. you can apply a second or third coat if you desire. it does not build up like tru-oil. you can get the same effect using tru-oil with the same method. danish oil is great for penetrating and bringing the grain out without buildup. i often use it to bring the grain out and allow to dry before applying a urethane or other finish

Great info., JP. Thanks!

What was that wipe on urethane you like?