Bill Tindall, E.TN
>I have learned something thinking about this discussion. Petroleum oil and wax is chemically as different from vegetable oils as apples and rocks. On the other hand, the oils we use in wood finishes, or the waxes in shellac, are as similar to vegetable oils as apples and pears. Hence, it is reasonable to assume that camellia oil would have no adverse effect on any finish that could be used over waxy-shellac or linseed oil.

On the other hand petroleum based waxes and lubricants could affect the adhesion of finishes applied over them. These materials would look like a rain coat to a typical finish, especially lacquer.

Bottom line, my aversion to oiling a tool is unfounded if a vegetable oil or fat is used. Being contrary, I will do an experiment with lard and olive oil and see how it works. I keep both on hand for cooking, while I have no easy source of Camellia oil. BTW, a shop in Cody WY specializing in leather object restoration/preservation uses olive oil on the leather. And olive oil was the traditional lubricant used on diamond charged cast iron lapping plates.