Thread: Soap finished oak?

Answering my own question! Found this discussion on another site.

Suitability of Soap Finishes on Oak - Design Addict Forum

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</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr class="td-lighter"> <td width="10"></td> <td class="td-generic-bottom-right">09-Jun-10</td> <td></td> </tr> <tr class="td-lighter"> <td width="10"></td> <td> I use natural organic soap...
I use natural organic soap flakes. Here is the procedure I use on my furniture.

-mix 5 heaping table spoons of soap flakes with boiling water, let cool.
-sand the wood to 220 and blow/brush clean the dust so the grain is open.
- apply the cooled soap mixture to the wood with a clean rag (not dripping, soaking wet). Make sure to not leave any visible soap suds, or soap buildup on the wood as it will cause the finish to be uneven.

At this point I let the piece dry and repeat the soap process. Once this is dry I sand the piece lightly with 320 water paper (using it dry) to knock down any raised grain. Finally, wipe the piece with a clean cloth and it's good to go.

From this point on all that's needed to clean and maintain the finish is a little soap and water on a cloth. Most small stains (mostly from skin oil) can just be wiped away with a damp cloth.


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why on earth would you use a soap finish??

Very intriguing. Would love to know more.

Maybe its using the waxy thing in the soap. Would think the finish would be very soft!

i know an architect that has there timber floor done wuth soap, they actual re apply the soap once a week or so as team building thing,

err, yeah, ok............... not!

Sounds like something you need "minions" working for you to do the maintenance.

Hi,
It brings back memories of the scrubbed kitchen tables and sink draining boards of my youth.
The same principal I would guess.
Regards