Boiled linseed oil has been used as a wood finish for centuries. Even in the modern age of polyurethane, some woodworkers still use boiled linseed oil for a handmade, natural look. But how long does boiled linseed oil take to dry?
The answer will vary depending on the type of wood, the climate, and the thickness of the application. In general, however, you can expect boiled linseed oil to take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to dry.
It’s important to note that boiled linseed oil is not actually a drying oil. Instead, it’s an oil-based finish that hardens as it reacts with oxygen in the air. This reaction is called oxidation, and it’s why boiled linseed oil takes so long to dry.
How to Speed up Boiled Linseed Oil Dry Time
If you need boiled linseed oil to dry faster, there are a few tricks you can try. The first is to use a thinner application. The thinner the application, the less time it will take for the oil to harden.
The second trick is to use a fan or a heat source to speed up the oxidation process. A fan will help the oil to dry faster by circulating the air around the wood. A heat source, such as an electric heater, will do the same by increasing the temperature of the air.
The Pros and Cons of Boiled Linseed Oil
Boiled linseed oil is a great choice for woodworkers who are looking for a natural, handmade finish. It’s easy to apply and has a beautiful, natural sheen. It also offers great protection against moisture and UV rays.
On the downside, boiled linseed oil takes a long time to dry and can be messy to work with. It also has a strong odor and can attract dust and dirt. Finally, it’s not as durable as other types of finishes, so it will need to be reapplied periodically.
Conclusion
Boiled linseed oil is a great choice for woodworkers who are looking for a natural, handmade finish. It’s easy to apply and has a beautiful, natural sheen. However, it takes a long time to dry, so you should plan ahead if you’re using it. You can speed up the drying process by using a thinner application or a fan or heat source. Boiled linseed oil is not as durable as other finishes, so it will need to be reapplied periodically.