Watco Butcher Block Oil application

[Matt Benton]

I am finishing some new butcher block countertops with Watco BBO, and was wondering if anyone had a suggestion as to knocking down the residue after application. I have put on two coats, both pretty heavy. I have some 1000 grit wet/dry sandpaper, but that doesn't seem to get the job done. 220 grit seems a bit severe. Maybe one of those sanding blocks from the borg?

Also, how many coats do I need? It is edge grain, so probably not going to saturate all the way through....

Thanks!

[Maurice Ungaro]

Have you tried using some #0000 steel wool? It'll act like a burnisher to the finish and even it out, leaving a satin look.

[Matt Benton]

Maurice,

I thought about it, but wasn't sure if the steel would be an issue regarding food safety...

Thanks,
Matt

[Maurice Ungaro]

You won't imbed the steel into the wood. Any thing that comes off of the pad can be easily cleaned off.

[Matt Benton]

Just tried the 0000. Looks like I went a little heavy on the Watco. It is disinegrating the steel wool. Maybe I'll try 00 and go up from there...

[Kyle Iwamoto]

Card scraper? That's what I use. BUT I make end grain, that soaks up a lot.