Hey all -
I could use some help when it comes to applying beeswax or paraffin wax to burnished edges as a final step. In Phil's video, he shows himself dipping a manual creaser in a vile of wax and applying. My question is: what do you do when you have a filetuse, and not a manual creaser? What does that process look like? I've tried it with a flat tip attachment but have not had any success.
Additionally, are there other methods to use as a "last step" when burnishing after using Tokonole to really seal everything in and waterproof it? I do not tend to use dyes when burnishing - I just use water, then burnish, then a couple coats of Tokonole + burnishing.
Thanks!
Hi there,
I really enjoy using beeswax to finish edges and so far this is what I have found that could maybe help you out.
You don't always need to dip the creaser/spade bit into beeswax if you just want to coat the edges, just rubbing beeswax on the edge until it has a matte appearance should apply enough beeswax to your edge. After that you can use a heated creaser/spade bit to melt the wax into the edge.
Personally I have made a sort of handheld spade bit instead of using a manual creaser, but the manual creasers or filetuse spade bit will work exactly the same for melting wax into the edge.
Dipping a creaser into the wax is usually for a different technique than just finishing the edges. Philip does explain the different applications in the "techniques of the edge part 1".
With regards to other methods of sealing edges, using a pva/water mixture does a pretty good job when used for burnishing, tokonole also offers some protection. Beeswax does do a great job of waterproofing as well. If you are looking to use edge paints to seal and finish edges then I highly suggest taking a look at part 2 of the techniques of the edge series. Edge paints are really good for a lot of different applications and definitely provide water resistance.
Another question you could ask yourself with regards to waterproofing edges is what products do you want to do this for. If it is something that won't really see any rain or heavy moisture then maybe it is not very necessary. On the flip side, if you are going to make something that is used outside a lot and has regular exposure to rain, then it can greatly help the longevity of your product.
Hope that helps a bit, if you have any other questions don't hesitate!