Oiled furniture

Olied wooden furniture has been pre-finished at the factory with several coats of pure *Tung Oil, giving a durable, water proof finish whilst enhancing the texture and beauty of the natural wood. To maintain the beauty and finish of your furniture, we recommend regular treatments with Tung, or similar drying oils (Danish oil, Teak oil).

How Often?

Since leaving the factory, your furniture may have spent several weeks in transport and storage and a treatment soon after you take delivery may benefit the appearance of your furniture. After that, oiling at six monthly intervals should suffice. More frequent applications can be applied.

Besides protecting the surface, the oil will enhance the colour, adding depth and patina to the finish. There are no hard and fast rules about how often, but areas of heavy usage, such as table-tops or the tops of chests, will benefit from more frequent applications.

How should the oil be applied?

Oiling could not be easier. Simply apply with a soft, lint free cloth and leave for 5 - 10 minutes for the oil to penetrate, before removing any excess. Leave for a further 30 minutes and wipe dry.

What are the advantages of an oiled finish?

Unlike conventional lacquers, drying oils penetrate deep into the surface of the timber, protecting from within. They cannot chip and any minor scratches to the surface of the timber can be retreated with the application of a little more oil. Drying oils protect without obscuring the natural `feel' and texture of the grain.

Which oils can I use?

Drying oils vary from pure oil (Tung) to many commercial preparations (Danish oil, Teak oil, Trip-trap oil etc).

All are suitable and most are readily available from DIY stores and supermarkets.

* Tung Oil is a natural, non-toxic oil obtained from the seed of the tung tree (Aleures fordii). Records of tung oil date back two millennia in China, its uses varying from water proofing ships to finishing the highest quality furniture. It is quick drying, penetrates deep into the pores of the timber, forms an almost permanent seal against moisture and does not lose its elasticity with age. It is widely recognised as one of the finest drying oils.

Waxed furniture

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The above notes are intended as a general guide only.

Always pay careful attention to all manufacturer's instructions included on proprietary brands of drying oils and finishing products.