Beeswax

Beeswax comes from the honeycombs of different bee species. Beeswax is formed in the bees body through the reaction of enzymes and sugar. The sugar comes from nectar. From about 6 grams of sugar 1 gram of wax is formed(1). To make the wax soft or liquid, turpentine (chemically treated natural resin) or white spirit (petroleum derived) is added. Many woodworkers love beeswax because of it’s smell. Beeswax on itself does not provide a strong protective layer. It is therefore often used in combination with oil. When one or two layers of oil are dry, a layer of wax is applied. After 30 minutes the surface should be buffed with a cloth. The surface is then water repellant but not waterproof(1).

Read More...Hide

The life cycle	Pro	Con
	Low Energy Beeswax requires no energy to be produced, as it is extracted ready to use from beehives, together with honey. Low footprint Beeswax is one of the most environmentally friendly woodworking material, because it is produced by bees and does not require any additional processing before use.
	Local Beeswax is widely available.
	Non toxic 100% pure beeswax is safe and non irritant. If diluted with solvents like turpentine, however, it offgasses toxic fumes. Easy reuse Beeswax has an indefinite shelf life!

	Non toxic Safe.	Short lifespan Mildly water resistant. Moderately resistant to acids and alkali. Damaged by alcohol. Will need to be reapplied frequently. Show Alternatives » Alternatives finishing Long lifespan 2 parts PU lacquer Chalk paint Clay and loam paint CNC engraving Epoxy filler Flour paint Laser engraving Oil based laquer Oil based paint Polyurethane varnish Screen printing Tung oil