How to Make a Wipeable Varnish

Wipeable varnish beautifies, shines and protects wood furniture without leaving brush strokes and air bubbles, or depositing dust and bristles from a paintbrush. You can apply wipeable varnish quickly with a soft, lint-free rag or a pad of paper towels. Two or three coats of wipeable varnish will protect a wood surface from moisture and scratches while adding shine. You can purchase ingredients for wipeable varnish at hardware and home stores.

Things You'll Need

• Tung or linseed oil
• Mineral spirits
• Oil drying agent (i.e., Japan drier)
• Metal can with lid

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Dilute 1 part oil with 1 part mineral spirits to thin the oil and make it wipeable. Alternately, add 1 part mineral spirits to your favorite commercial varnish for the same effect.

   • 2

     Mix in 1/2 part oil drying agent to accelerate the drying time.

   • 3

     Store the varnish in an airtight metal can in a dry, cool, well ventilated area away from open flame.