Hey everyone! I'm new here and looking for insights about Rubio Monocoat. I picked up the Charcoal color and I'm considering using it on some pine wood, both with and without the hardener. I applied a coat without hardener about 24 hours ago and while it looks fine, when I wipe the surface, the pigment just rubs off onto my hand and tissue. How long should I wait for it to fully cure, with or without the hardener? Am I missing something in the process? Thanks for any advice!
3 Answers
Definitely check the instructions for the drying time. It won't be fully cured just 24 hours after application, especially without the hardener. That’s probably what’s causing the pigment to rub off so easily. Give it some time!
Have you prepped the surface at all? Pine can be quite rough and open, which sometimes makes a difference. I'm also curious why you’re testing it without hardener. If you're looking for that full wax oil feel, I totally get that! But just a heads up that not using hardener could impact durability.
You really need to give it more time without the hardener—it can take a week to really harden. And just skipping the hardener won't give you a genuine finish; it’s important for the curing process. If you’re using basic framing lumber, remember there might be a waxy coating on it that needs to be sanded off for the best outcome.

Also, what did you expect from the finish without a hardener after only 24 hours? It may take a week to fully set up.