Thread: Larch Resin - An experiment in a Food Save Varnish

I would like your thoughts on this recipe I mixed up a varnish as an experiment. I am looking for a food-safe oil finish to use on wooden spoons.


Varnish Recipe

• 450ml hemp seed oil (I like the colour, the smell, and it works) and it P's off the narcs.
• 450ml stand oil
• 10ml Venetian Turpentine (Larch resin) (is added as a softener or plasticiser, to counteract hardness or brittleness in a varnish) - I had a bottle and just tried it.
• 100g carnauba wax

The recipe worked surprisingly well. Giving a very smooth easy-to-apply finish with a low gloss. But the finish is thicker forming a film that you do not get with just a simple oil finish.

The MSDS says that Venetian Turpentine (Larch resin) can cause dry skin and the fumes should not be inhaled it can catch on fire but how safe do you think it is diluted as it is in the recipe?

I have rubbed the finish on my skin and lips as a test and have not suffered any reactions. And I have very reactive skin.

Larch resin is used in food products and skin creams.

Some reading says that Venetian Turpentine is a popular addition to varnish made by violin makers both historical and contemporary. However, there is much debate on its use.

Thoughts?