I did a lot of research before deciding to use Tung Oil as the finish for my table. Most of the resources said that the instructions on the container of Tung Oil may or may not be the best way to apply it. And most of them agreed on what the best way was. So, with this information, I decided I would ignore the instructions on the can and follow these instructions instead.
I would apply a liberal coat of Tung Oil to all surfaces. Then, with 400grit sandpaper, I would sand the oil into the wood’s surface. If the wood was thirsty and drank all the oil, I would add more and sand more until the wood was saturated. Then I would allow 15-20 minutes for the oil to soak in. Then, with a clean cloth, I would buff the surface liberally and evenly. I would then apply a second coat with my hands or a rag. No sanding needed. I would let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then buff it off again. Then I would apply a third coat, this time, allowing the oil to seep in overnight. Then, finally, the next day, I would buff the oil off and be done.
If more coats were desired, they would be applied like the third coat. If a touch up coat was needed in the future, it would be applied like the second and third coats.