Father Haskell wrote:
[snipped for brevity]

Thought it might be useful for cutting the alkyd
enamel I'm putting on a bookcase, where linseed would make the
paint too soft.

It works like a dream in giving alkyds a bit of 'leg'. Just a little
dab will do ya.
I wouldn't brush an alkyd without a bit of it. It lays down so
nicely... also nothing but a Purdy brush will do.
Penetrol works nicely as a wood finish, straight out of the
can...especially for out-door use.