Things You'll Need:
- Bucket
- Paint stirrer
- Paint brush
- Old rag
Linseed oil is a natural wood conditioner that protects unfinished wood from damage. It also brings out the natural color and grain pattern of unfinished wood, and allows for easier application of oil paint. However, linseed oil is thick and difficult to apply unless you thin it. Making your own mixture of linseed oil and paint thinner at home is a simple process and will help you apply the oil paint more efficiently.
Read the instructions on your container of linseed oil to find out how much the manufacturer recommends you use per square foot of unfinished wood. Pour only as much linseed oil as you need for your specific product into a bucket.
Pour paint thinner into the bucket until you have 1 part linseed oil to 2 parts paint thinner. Stir the mixture with a paint stirrer until it is completely incorporated.
Apply the mixture to the wood piece as instructed, with a paintbrush. After 5 to 10 minutes, wipe off any excess linseed oil and paint thinner with an old rag to prevent a gummy buildup on the wood surface.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Richmond, Va., Dawn Gibbs writes about topics such as history, fashion, literature, crafts, alternative medicine and healthy living. Her work has appeared on GreenDaily.com and several style websites. Gibbs holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Virginia Commonwealth University.
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