How to Apply Wax Finishing to Wood

Wax finishing creates a wonderful surface on wood and wood work crafts, and is easy to apply. Below is an old method for wax finishing, which comes from H.H. Windsor.

Instructions

1. When wax-finishing hardwoods, you should use first use paste filler and shellac varnish to get the nicest surface.

   The wax can also be rubbed into unfilled wood, but that will give you a different effect than regular wax polishing.

2. For soft woods, first apply a stain. Then apply either a liquid filler or shellac, depending on the quality of the work. Liquid filler is cheaper than shellac.

3. First, melt the wax. Then, add turpentine. The usual proportion is two parts wax to one part turpentine.

4. If you are just polishing or reviving the furniture, you can add three or four more times turpentine than wax.

5. To make an egg-shell gloss effect, rub vigorously with a stiff bristled brush or woolen rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Use good ventilation!

Resources

• H.H. Windsor's Mission Furniture eBook