Your wood surface needs to be free of dust, dirt, oil and other messes in order for the tung oil to set up properly. A good wipedown also serves to raise the wood grain, which makes sanding more effective and results in a smoother overall finish.

TSP is a highly-effective deep cleaner, but it’s also highly toxic. Always make it a point to wear long-sleeved clothing, rubber gloves, and a respirator or facemask anytime you’re working with the chemical. [2] X Research source It’s also a good idea to do your stripping in an area with good ventilation (or outside, if possible) to prevent the fumes from becoming overpowering.

Sanding is necessary to help the first layer of tung oil settle into the wood.

Use a thin dry brush to coax stubborn particles out of creases and grooves. Any dust left behind may create imperfections in the finish.

You can also stretch out a few sheets of newspaper if you don’t have a tarp or dropcloth on hand. Rich natural oils like tung oil can leave permanent stains if they find their way onto absorbent materials.

You shouldn’t need more than a single canister of tung oil for most small projects—1⁄4 gallon (0. 95 l) can cover up to 100 square feet of unfinished wood. Don’t thin tung oil if you’re planning on treating surfaces that will be used for culinary purposes, like countertops, cutting boards, and spoons. While the oil itself is naturally non-toxic, chemical solvents can leach into foods that come into contact with the surface, making them harmful to ingest. [5] X Research source

By adding the oil to a rag, you’ll have much more control over where the finish ends up than you would by pouring it directly onto the wood itself. You can also use a wide-tipped bristle or sponge brush to apply tung oil. [6] X Research source

You also have the option of applying a little oil to the insides of drawers and cabinet doors if you’d prefer a more uniform look.

Be careful not to oversaturate the wood with a single application. You’ll get better results by layering on several coats.

If possible, leave the item alone for 1-2 full hours. More resting time means better absorption. Any accidental scratches or dents made while the tung oil is still fresh may be noticeable in the completed finish.

Keep an eye out for wet spots glistening in grooves and depressions—these areas can be easy to overlook.

Most projects will require between 4-6 individual coats. The more coats you put on, the darker and more lustrous the finish will become and the more protected it will be. Treating wood with tung oil is an ongoing process that may take several days or weeks, not a one-and-done overnight project. Take your time and focus on applying each coat correctly.

Use a light touch to avoid sanding through the finish. [11] X Research source Repeated sanding will prepare each layer of tung oil to accept the next coat by forming tiny “teeth” for the fresh oil to fill in.

Newly-finished wood will cure fastest when stored in a cool, dry environment.