Linseed oil is a valuable natural oil typically used as a wood preservative. It’s also a common ingredient in paints and varnishes. For home repair purposes, linseed is a popular ingredient. It doesn’t only preserve wood but also prevents wood deterioration. However, linseed oil is a slow-drying liquid. Hence, it’s necessary to mix linseed oil and turpentine to speed up the oil’s drying time.
How to Mix Linseed Oil and Turpentine?
If the thickness of linseed oil makes it difficult for you to use it on wood surfaces, then you need to mix it with turpentine. To make the mixture, simply do the following:
- Mix one part of linseed oil and two parts turpentine.
- Cover the mixture
- Allow it to sit for a few days to completely mix the two ingredients
You might wonder what container to use to put the mixture. The best option is a glass container that comes with a tight screw. To mix these two faster, make sure to turn the container on its top or its side every two hours. When you see that it’s all liquid, pour a small amount into another container. Then, you can start dipping your brush. The rest of the mixture should be kept in the container and sealed up to ensure that it will last a while.
What Linseed Oil to Use?
Raw linseed may be a better option because it came from flax seed and has no preservatives. However, it dries slowly. It takes weeks to fully cure the surface. Thus, you must limit its use to the insides of the wood or other items where drying time isn’t important. But slow-drying is actually a benefit if you’re using it for paint jobs because it enables the paint to level, thereby, offering a smoother finish. Unfortunately, though, the long drying times can be an inconvenience if you’re going to use it on surfaces that are walked on.
Thus, if you don’t want the long drying times, you may choose boiled linseed oil. It’s not actually boiled. Rather, linseed oil became boiled after certain solvents have been added so that they dry quicker. Doing so will make it easier to work on. It makes it a better product to be used for preserving handles, furniture, and decks.
Why Consider Linseed Oil as a Wood Preservative?
Linseed oil isn’t the only wood preservative on the market. Other oils can be used as an additive. However, this oil is the most common alternative because of its price. Thus, if you’re going to coat a half mile of wood fencing, linseed oil is a more cost-effective option.
Another reason it’s a popular oil is that it contains no dangerous chemicals. In that case, you can safely use it on cutting boards and wood bowls. However, check the label first before using it. It’s especially true if you want to mix it with turpentine.
If you’re ready to use linseed oil and turpentine for your projects, please visit our online shop today.