Recent content by RobertCarter

I use two timber yards. Nigel Fleckley at English hardwoods (Geddington Sawmill, Geddington, NN14 1AJ) for locally sourced English timbers (oak, beech, elm, ash, sycamore etc) and also bog oak. More locally to me in London, I use E Roberts & Sons (Timber Yard, Ash Wharf, London, N18 3AB) who...

Who's Richard? Did you mean me? Yes, they are wonderful I really don't want to give them back but I must. I shall call the Client today.... later on! Best, Robert.

Finished rowlocks forcola:

Having said all that, I might try and make some of my own or thereabouts!

Yes, they are stunning. I have sent pictures to a Company in Venice who used to make them in order find out the process. They are finished with mineral oil diluted 4:1 with turpentine (this they called straw oil, I know not why!). They are signed by Carli, 1961, (Giuseppe) who was apparently...

Thank you....See earlier. Going to use mineral oil + turpentine.

Thank you one and all. Not sure I'll be rowing with them in NW London but probably better to use the authentic method.

Just to let you know that Saverio Pastor of Le Forcola replied to my e-mail to him to say that 'Straw Oil' is mineral oil and it is best diluted with Turpentine (4:1). I have no idea why it is called straw oil. I have never used mineral oil, as opposed to vegetable oils such as Tung oil...

Thank you. Yes, I will try using some walnut oil diluted with turpentine. Do you suggest walnut oil from Sainsbury's or Waitrose?!! Best, Rob.

Will do. I still learning how this forum works: only joined yesterday!

Many thanks, all. I sort of wanted to use the authentic method since they are such spectacular objects. Hence, I will go ahead and buy straw oil which is available. I am a little uns=certain about using petrol. Maybe I'll use turpentine. Many thanks, Rob.

I am seeking advice from anyone who has used straw oil. I have been given two Venetian Rowlocks (1961), made from Italian walnut, to restore (below); traditionally they were finished with several coats of diluted straw oil. Has anyone any experience with straw oil? Thank you.