RO150FEQ and 3 Oils

[Dave Ronyak]

Hi Len,
I was waiting for confirmation from the Patagonian Wood Finishers' Diary of publication, but I'll give the whole regimen here now. ;D

I start by sanding the workpiece at 80grit, then 100,120,150,240 and 400g using ROS with the 400 and OS with the others. At this point, I wipe the surface with Turps, let it dry and then flood with oil (my standard is Wattyl Scandinavian Oil as it is a liquid, which does not tend to set while sitting on the timber.)
After flooding, I allow about 10 minutes, (depending on the timber) for the oil to soak in. Then I apply a second coat with a soft cloth, so the surface of the workpiece is wet and begin sanding with the 400g I have just used with the sander on ROS. A slurry should begin to build up and the timber will appear rather "muddy".It's then time to change to 600g. Applying oil to the sanding pad so that it is wet will give all the lubrication you need. Do not wipe off the slurry or add oil to the timber surface.
Repeat this process through 800,1200 and 1500g.
I now pull out the Platin 2 pads and use  2000g and 4000g without the addition of oil, and then wipe the piece down with a soft cloth and its done.
It sounds excessive, but try it against your standard method and let me know what you think.
I do not believe it necessary to use anything like Tripoli powder or pumice after this method. Poly, wax or probably even Shellac or other water based finishes should be fine over the top.
Each sanding is contiguous (no waiting) and requires only 5 or 6 strokes across the piece, so its actually quite fast.
If you use China Wood Oil, or Tung oil you should have no problems. I know China Wood oil will give a brilliant finish, but will not have the "high gloss" effect that the Scandinavian oil will. It's great for a satin lustre.
Lastly, I know this sounds excessive, but if anyone wants, I can provide you by email, a hi res photo of two boxes made from the same board, one using the full protocol, the other a less stringent method.

Regards,

All Brit

Rob,

Would I be correct in assuming your sander is not connected to any dust collector while working the finishing oil?

Dave R.

 

[ROb McGilp]

Hi Dave,

Actually, I do leave the vacuum attached, I've tried with and without and it doesn't seem to matter.

Regards,

Rob