Does Varnish smell go away..

[Joel Wesseling]

I want to try a home made wipe on varnish. Its for a project thats going to a friend.

Havent done this yet but know from past how Tung oil and linseed oil smell stays around for a long time..

Does the smell go away completely and after what time period?

Thanks, Joel

[Conrad Fiore]

It could take a couple of weeks in a well ventilated area. Avoid using it on any inside surface area, such as inside drawers and cabinets. The smell will take forever to dissipate in those areas.

[Howard Acheson]

Oil based finishes off-gas almost forever. As long as they continue to cure, they continue to off-gas. Most of the curing is done with3-4 weeks but some amount of curing goes on forever. That's the reason that oil based finishes should not be used on interior surfaces if cloth or clothing will be stored inside. It's not good for unsealed food stuffs either. Use only a shellac, lacquer or waterborne finish inside enclosed spaces.

[Joel Wesseling]

Thanks, I'll give a shot. Have to see/smell for myself if it will be an issue