Oil for redgum block?

Hi All

Great forum, been lurking here a few days! I'm working on a little project, turning an old block of red gum in to a desk clock, and am trying to decide on the best oil to use. Organoil seems to be what I'm looking for - I don't want high gloss, but a light sheen with plenty of depth to the colour and burl, but can't quite figure out the best method of application, and whether to go with Danish Oil or Hard Burnishing Oil - and whether the two require very different methods of application.

If it makes any difference, the 'back side' of my clock will have some of the natural exterior of the tree; not sure how that will look oiled up yet! :)

I've only taken it up to about 320 grit smoothness at the moment, but believe I need to decide on the oil before going any further? As I think hard burnishing oil needs to be wet sanded in at lower grits before making ones way up to 1200? But not the case for Danish - I dry sand straight to 1200, and then oil? All a bit confused, any help would be great!

Thanks

Hi Matt,
Welcome to the forums.
If you decide on Hard Burnishing oil, you sand the lower grits (up to 400 or 500) then apply several coats (usually three is enough) of Hard Burnishing Oil, so that the wood is wet, but not saturated. This will usually take about 20 minutes. Red Gum is quite dense, so you may only need 2 coats

Then you go through the upper grits starting with the last pad you last used on the dry sand. Usually use 10 strokes, where one up and back action equals one "stroke" You should see a light slurry form while you are doing this. Don't wipe it off, it helps the fine finish develop. Repeat this with the other grits you have, taking it up to 1200,1500, 2000 and 4000 grit, your choice. The higher you go, the greater lustre.

The advantage HBO offers over other oils are, the very smooth finish, high resistance to liquid and heat, and a silky smooth feel to the piece and the finish is dry and and protected within 24 hours. The Danish Oil is applied like most oils, takes less time and gives a nice finish. HBO will make the grain pop beautifully.

If you want more info, send me a PM. Always glad to help.

Regards,

Rob