Danish oil provides a penetrating finish and imparts a luster that can enhance your oldest furniture and woodwork. Applying the oil requires some prep and a number of steps, but the process can be done without any professional help.
Sand your wood project with 180- to 220-grit sandpaper. This allows the stain to penetrate the wood.
2
Stain the wood with a water-based product. Apply the Danish oil liberally over the stain using a soft rag and let stand for 30 minutes. This enhances the natural grain of the wood.
3
Wipe off the finish with a clean, soft rag. Apply moderate pressure to give the piece a handsome, hand-rubbed finish.
4
Reapply another liberal coat of Danish oil. Let it stand for 15 minutes and wipe off the finish with a clean, soft rag.
5
Wipe down the wood every 30 minutes with a soft rag for the next few hours. The oil seeps to the top of the wood, and process will catch any excess.
6
Apply a natural, non-colored Danish oil with 320- to 400-grit sandpaper every few days for the next month. This process works the oil into the wood better than a rag and produces a smoother surface. Use a finer grit of sandpaper each time, gradually working up to 600-grit by the end of the month.
7
Apply a coat of lemon oil or paste wax as a final finish. Follow up every year or two with a coat of natural finish Danish oil.
Tips & Warnings
Use a natural version of Danish oil over bare wood ends first to keep the stain from soaking in too much.
Do not use oil-based stains, or the finish will not set.
