How much OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil do I need for my surface?
Depending on the container size, OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil covers the following areas:
With one coat:
- 250 ml: approx. 3–4 m²
- 1 liter: approx. 12–17 m²
With two coats:
- 250 ml: approx. 1.5–2 m²
- 1 liter: approx. 6–8.5 m²
With three coats:
- 250 ml: approx. 1–1.4 m²
- 1 liter: approx. 4–5.7 m²
Initial treatment usually requires two to three coats. End grain can absorb significantly more oil.
Note: All coverage figures are estimates. Actual coverage depends on the wood species, final sanding, the wood’s absorbency, and the application method.
What is the difference between linseed oil and boiled linseed oil?
Both harden by absorbing oxygen from the air. Raw linseed oil takes relatively long to do so. boiled linseed oil is pre-oxidized and blended with a small amount of drying agent. This allows it to harden faster and more evenly. This is how linseed oil becomes boiled linseed oil.
How is boiled linseed oil made?
Linseed oil is obtained by cold-pressing the seeds of the flax plant, carefully cleaned, and then gently heated. A small amount of manganese dryer is incorporated during this process.
Which drying agent is added?
For reliable drying, OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil contains just 0.4% of a cobalt-free manganese dryer. It supports the natural hardening of the linseed oil and ensures faster, more even drying. The finished product is not classified as hazardous under the CLP Regulation.
Is OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil suitable for wood that comes into contact with food?
Yes. OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil has been tested by an independent German testing laboratory in accordance with the LFGB and is suitable, once fully cured, for wood surfaces that come into contact with food, such as cutting boards, kitchen woodware, and cooking utensils.
Can I use boiled linseed oil as cooking oil?
No. OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil is not cooking oil. It was developed for treating wood surfaces. Once fully cured, it is suitable for wood surfaces that come into contact with food, but the product itself is not intended for consumption.
Does boiled linseed oil change the color of the wood?
Yes. boiled linseed oil is transparent and unpigmented, but it enhances the wood’s natural color: the color and grain become more pronounced, and the wood looks warmer and richer. Lighter wood species in particular develop a natural honey tone. The degree of color deepening depends on the wood’s base color and absorbency. We therefore recommend testing it on an inconspicuous area first.
What should I keep in mind when applying it?
Apply the boiled linseed oil thinly and evenly with a cotton cloth or brush. After about 15–30 minutes, completely wipe off any excess oil with an absorbent, lint-free cotton cloth. Otherwise, sticky spots, uneven gloss and significantly longer drying times may occur. Depending on the absorbency of the wood, two to three coats are usually sufficient.
Can oil-soaked cloths and pads spontaneously combust?
Yes. boiled linseed oil is a drying oil and hardens by absorbing oxygen from the air. This generates heat. On the wood surface, the heat can dissipate; in crumpled cloths, pads or sponges, however, it can build up and cause spontaneous combustion. The product itself is not self-igniting.
Never leave oil-soaked work materials crumpled up. After use, store them under water or lay them out individually and flat in a safe place to dry completely. Then dispose of them in accordance with local regulations. Never put oil-soaked materials in a tumble dryer.
How long does boiled linseed oil take to dry?
Depending on the temperature and humidity, the treated surface will be dust-dry after about 1–2 hours and ready for recoating after 16–24 hours. It will be fully cured after around 21 days.
The oil dries by absorbing oxygen from the air. Good ventilation and suitable temperatures promote curing; cold, high humidity and poor air circulation delay it. Applying the oil too thickly or failing to wipe off all the excess can also result in sticky spots and considerably longer drying times.
What does boiled linseed oil smell like while drying?
The characteristic smell develops as the boiled linseed oil cures naturally. How it develops and is perceived also depends on the type of wood. The smell gradually fades as curing progresses.
Can I make half oil from boiled linseed oil?
Yes. Mixing OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil and OLI NATURA® Oil Thinner in a 1:1 ratio produces what is known as half oil. It is thinner, easier to spread evenly and traditionally used to prime absorbent wood surfaces before subsequent coats of oil.
If the boiled linseed oil is to be applied undiluted, it can alternatively be carefully warmed to about 40 °C in a water bath. This also makes it thinner and easier to work into the surface. Do not heat it directly or over an open flame.
How do I clean brushes and tools?
Clean brushes and tools immediately after use with OLI NATURA® brush cleaner, OLI NATURA® Oil Thinner or a suitable mineral spirits-based cleaner.
OLI NATURA® Care Set No. 4 for Cutting Boards
OLI NATURA® Furniture Wax
OLI NATURA® boiled linseed oil – 25 ml sampler
Lacquer and oil brush
OLI NATURA® brush cleaner
Flat brush
Outdoor cleaner
Oil-Absorbing Cloths - in 10 or 40 pcs.
