Wood Honey Food Safe Wood Finish

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What’s the difference between a surface sealer and a penetrating oil?

  A surface sealer, such as varnish or polyurethane, forms a protective film that seals the surface, and that can be built up with additional coats. A penetrating oil soaks into the wood grain and, though it doesn’t form a film, it penetrates the wood fibers to repel water and other common liquids, such as coffee and other beverages.
• Is TotalBoat Wood Honey a penetrating oil or a surface sealer?

  TotalBoat Wood Honey is a penetrating oil.
• What’s the difference between a drying oil and a non-drying oil?

  Drying and non-drying oils are both types of penetrating oils. A drying oil, when exposed to oxygen, undergoes a process called polymerization in which it cures, or dries. A non-drying oil will continue to remain wet, and doesn’t ever dry. Non-drying oils generally need more frequent maintenance than drying oils, to maintain the same finish. Examples of drying oils are linseed oil and walnut oil; non-drying oils include coconut oil, mineral oil, and olive oil.
• Is TotalBoat Wood Honey a drying oil or a non-drying oil?

  TotalBoat Wood Honey is a drying oil.
• Will TotalBoat Wood Honey change the color of wood or cured epoxy inlays?

  Wood Honey is yellow and it brings out the tone and wood grain beautifully. It’s not meant to be applied thickly enough to change the surface color, but there is a slight chance that if, applied to white or clear surfaces, it may impart a very slight amber color. We recommend that you always test to make sure this product achieves the desired finish, before applying to your actual project.
• How many coats of TotalBoat Wood Honey do I need to apply?

  On bare wood, apply two coats of Wood Honey. Apply the first coat, let it soak in for 10-20 minutes, then wipe the surface to remove any excess oil. Wait 20 minutes, then apply a second coat of Wood Honey, allow to sit for 10-20 minutes, then wipe off the excess oil. Allow to dry.
• Does TotalBoat Wood Honey raise the wood grain after application?

  Wood Honey may raise the wood grain slightly. If the grain is raised after the first application, wait 3-5 days for the oil to polymerize, then lightly sand the surface, in the direction of the grain, with 320-400 grit sandpaper. Remove any sanding residue with a clean, lint-free cloth, and apply another coat of Wood Honey.
• How long does it take TotalBoat Wood Honey to dry to a tack-free state?

  Wood Honey dries slowly, and will be tack-free after three to four days.
• How long does Wood Honey take to cure fully and be safe for food contact?

  Wood Honey takes about five to seven days to cure, and for the cured surface to be food-safe and ready to use.
• How do I apply a maintenance coat of TotalBoat Wood Honey?

  Clean the surface with mild cleaners, do not use heavy-duty cleaners, and do not scrub hard. Rinse the surface with clean water and allow it to dry completely. Sanding is not required, but if a smoother finish is desired, do a light sanding and remove all sanding residue before applying a maintenance coat of Wood Honey.