Expert: Jamie Yocono - 12/14/2006

Question
I have heard you refer to your preference for Watco Danish oil when finishing a piece. I am a fledgling in furniture making and have seen the flooding process you describe when first applying the oil to the piece.

I recently went to pick up some Watco Danish oil in order to begin the finish work on a Walnut table stand that I just completed. I was given to understand that I wanted to use a "neutral" oil to enhance the natural wood color and grain, and to avoid stains if at all possible. But when I looked at the Watco Danish oil selections there were varying stains (from several walnuts to cherry) but nothing resembling a neutral or clear oil. I have encountered this in two big-box home hardware stores, and in one wood working specialty shop.

When presented with such options, do I simply select the oil with stain that I think is nearest to my wood, or is there a neutral option out there that I am better off locating?

Thanks for your insight,
Mike

Answer
Mike-

Good question.

When wanting a clear Watco finish with no tinting whatsoever, look for the Watco Natural. The Natural color is clear and untinted.

I used to sell Watco at my woodworking store, MANY years ago. The Natural oil was by far the best seller. You shouldn't have any problems finding it at one of the big stores. They all carry it.

Hope this helps, please feel free to write back if you have any further questions after reading this. And if this answer was helpful... please take a minute and rate my service. Thanks!

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com