Tung oil or China wood oil is a drying oil obtained by pressing the seed from the nut of the tung tree ( Vernicia fordii ). Tung oil hardens upon exposure to air (through polymerization ), and the resulting coating is transparent and has a deep, almost wet look.
Is tung oil a good finish?
Tung oil imparts a warmth and shine difficult to replicate with even the most modern finishes. Because it’s both waterproof and food safe, woodenware is a great candidate for a tung oil finish. That failed trip to buy my former favourite finish eventually led me to discover other natural finishes. Tung oil is unique, but it’s not alone.
Can tung oil be cured in a kiln?
You can take advantage of naturally hot, dry, sunny days, or make an oil-curing kiln to successfully and quickly cure tung oil no matter what the weather is. Tung oil imparts a warmth and shine difficult to replicate with even the most modern finishes.
Where did Tung oil come from?
The tung oil tree originates in southern China and was cultivated there for tung oil, but the date of cultivation remains unknown. The earliest references for Chinese use of tung oil are in the writings of Confucius (551 – 479 BCE) around 500 to 479 BC.