It seems to be disolving relatively well with just olive oil (consulted a household hints book for removing stickers) but I am concerned about how the oil will affect the sanding and varnish application. Will denatured alcohol remove the oil film?   

   I'm pretty sure Dawn dishwashing liquid will dissolve (or at least soften) the tape residue and prep for varnish at the same time.

Hooper Williams

Brevard, NC

I've had good luck with vegetable oil as well.  Just DO NOT use it on unfinished wood.  Afterwards, washing it with warm soapy water and rinsing it is a good idea.

Removing packing tape residue from unfinished wood is a real bear.  Used acetone and a lot of elbow grease to remove it when I gor my CLC kit.  I wish they'd use something else.

Cheers,

Dick

Thanks for all of your input.

I have had some success by doing a light sanding with 120 grit paper. The remaining residue I rubbed off using a crepe block (the kind you use for cleaning sandpaper) and a moderate amount of elbow grease; it worked like a giant eraser.  

Back to the grind

Judy 

I have had success with using olive oil and acetone together. The acetone breaks down the glue and the oil keeps it from sticking again. The acetone wont do any damage to the resin and leaves a clean finish for the varnish