Blotchy finish

[Hans Braul]

I have just made a couple of cherry picture frames (really test pieces to make sure I can still make anything after 15 years away from woodworking) and finished by applying pure tung oil and wiping dry (x4), then applying wax and buffing. The result is disappointing. It looked great for a day, then started to blotch. Is this the result of the tung oil not having been allowed to cure before applying the wax?

Thanks
Hans

[Steve Schoene]

Four coats of pure tung oil are usually not sufficient to provide a smooth finish with an even sheen, and are quite likely to still be blotchy. I'd say you are two or three coats away from a satisfactory tung oil finish.

At this point I would just remove the wax with naptha or mineral spirits and carry on with the remaining necessary coats. Sand with 400 grit paper and apply another coat, wiping off all excess as before. Apply coats several days apart to get them closer to being cured--and sand lightly between each coat before applying the next.