: I re-contoured an oil finished paddle last night, but didn't remove all of
: the original finish. Sanding it was a pain, as it clogged the paper and
: smeared. When I applied a new coat of oil, the finish came out slightly
: rough, with fine spotches in the areas where the old finish was not
: completely removed. The question is: how do I fix it?

: My first thought is to sand between each oil coat in order to gradually blend
: the old and new finishes, and smooth the surface. I've also considered wet
: sanding with either wet/dry paper or steel wool, using the oil finish as a
: lubricant. Is either of these methods likely to work?

: Now I know why the smart paddle makers out there tell you not to apply a
: finish until you're satified with the shape.

If your old oil finish is clogging and smearing it sounds like it has not cured properly. I'd remove it with medium steel wool and denatured alcohol. Then recoat the whole paddle.

If you haven't applied an oil finish before you wipe it on and after 15 - 20 minutes wipe off any excess. If you do not wipe off the excess and allow the oil to dry overnight before applying another coat if will remain gummy.

If you want to build up the finish faster than with just straight oil, you can get a faster build-up and better waterproof finish by mixing 50/50 oil and marine spar varnish. Apply just like an oil finish, again, apply with a rag and wipe off excess after 20 minutes. Three coats of the spar/oil finish will equal six coats of oil only.

The spar/oil finish works well on furniture too!

All the best,

Rob Macks
Laughing Loon CC&K
www.LaughingLoon.com