Tung Oil Application Technique

[Matt.]

I want to finish my newly made bow with Tung oil. I love the warm satin finish it gives. Whenever I have used it in the past, I simply rubbed it in the wood, reapplying several times.

How do you apply your tung oil?

Also, is it safe to apply a varnish on top of the oil?

[AKmud]

Same way, with a clean cloth.  For some added luster, I have been putting on a few coats of Bri-wax over the tung oil.  I haven't tried varnish.

[frank bullitt]

Matt , I suppose your talking pure tung oil? Gary Davis uses Formby's tung oil blend, he dips in a tube. Great finish! I've used it on bows and arrows, wiped on and is great, easy to fix scratches and such.

[rainman]

It heops pure tung oil to dry faster if it is hot when applied, then rub in briskly with palm of hand until it is hot from friction.  I was taught this by a Japanese trained wood worker.  I can put on a coat every 2 hours this way.

Dan