How to Seal a Painting in Beeswax
Beeswax has been used for centuries to seal out moisture and dirt from paintings. It creates a smooth, slightly luminous coat that can be polished, if desired. Beeswax is also resistant to insects, mildew and mold. Furthermore, it will not turn yellow over time like many varnishes. Instead, it provides a smooth, archival protective coat that will preserve and protect your work for generations.
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Things You'll Need
- Beeswax
- Tin can
- Electric frying pan or electric griddle
- Wooden spoon
- Old natural bristle paintbrush
- Heat gun
- Soft clean white cloth
Instructions
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1
Check to make sure that the tin can is clean and dry. Break the wax into small pieces and place them in the can. The tin can must be clean and dry, as water or impurities could contaminate the wax and damage your painting.
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2
Place the tin of beeswax on the electric frying pan and turn the frying pan on to 220 degrees F. Heat it, stirring occasionally with the wooden spoon, until the wax completely melts.
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3
Lay the painting flat, making sure that it is clean and free of dust. Brush the melted beeswax onto the painting with the paintbrush. It is important to use a natural bristle brush, as synthetic brushes may melt into the wax. After you have covered the entire surface, allow it to dry.
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4
Turn on the heat gun and carefully hold it approximately 1 inch from the surface of the painting. Carefully run it over the entire painting, making sure not to actually touch it. This procedure will smooth, fuse and strengthen the beeswax.
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5
Allow the beeswax to dry completely. Buff it with a clean, white cloth.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not use paraffin wax as a substitute for beeswax because it is brittle and will eventually crack.
References
- Photo Credit Ablestock.com/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
