Wood Butter

1. Prepare the Surface:

• If the wood surface is rough or has been previously treated, you may want to sand it lightly first using fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit). Sanding helps open the wood pores, ensuring better absorption of the wood butter.
• Clean the wood thoroughly using a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove any dust or debris from sanding.

2. Apply the Wood Butter:

• Take a small amount of wood butter onto a clean cloth (a little goes a long way).
• Rub it in small circles, applying an even layer of wood butter over the surface of the wood. Be sure to cover the entire area, including edges and corners.
• Apply more if necessary, but avoid applying too much—just enough to coat the surface evenly.

3. Let It Soak In:

• Allow the wood butter to sit for 10–15 minutes to soak into the wood.
• If you're working with a particularly dry or thirsty piece of wood, you might let it sit for longer.

4. Buff the Surface:

• After the wood butter has absorbed into the wood, take a clean, dry cloth and buff the surface to remove any excess.
• Buff in the direction of the wood grain to enhance the finish and give it a smooth, polished appearance.

5. Let It Cure:

• Allow the wood to cure for several hours or overnight (depending on humidity and temperature) before using the surface.
• The wood butter will penetrate and harden, leaving a soft sheen and a smooth, nourished finish.

Additional Tips:

• Reapply as Needed: Wood butter can be reapplied periodically to maintain the wood's appearance and protect it from moisture, especially for items like cutting boards and countertops.
• Avoid Over-Application: While it's tempting to slather on a thick coat, too much wood butter can make the surface greasy. Just a thin, even layer is best.
• Test in a Small Area First: If you're using wood butter on an item that has a finish you are unfamiliar with, test it in a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure you like the result.