A recipe for my favorite wood finish... Boiled linseed oil, beeswax candle without the wick. Approximately 1 part wax to 4 parts oil. Microwave or double boiler.

Cut the wax into ½"to 1"chunks to facilitate melting. Stir occasionally in double boiler until wax is fully melted or use a microwave in 15 second bursts, stirring in between. Allow to cool.

It should be about the consistency of paste. Store in an airtight container.

I've heard commercial linseed oil for wood finish contains heavy metals to facilitate curing. If you want a food contact grade, select a suitable replacement oil, or boil your own linseed oil.

#refinishing #woodworking #grownostr

To use, grab a dollop on a disposable rag and rub well into the grain. Let sit for an hour or three and rub with a clean terry rag to remove excess. If you notice dry spots or uneven penetration, do it again the next day. It ain't rocket science.

P.S. I always thought the whole "oily rags can spontaneously combust" thing was a myth. IT'S NOT A MYTH! the curing process of these finishing oils releases heat. And, yes, enough heat to start a fire... Ask me how I know!

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Discussion

What projects are you on?

Currently refinishing a 75 year old oak desk for my pastor. I used it on the pulpit in the sanctuary 2 years ago, and built a pine bunk bed for my boys about a decade ago. We just dismantled that one, but the finish still looked great!

Thanks for the recipe. I’ll give it a try some time.

I buy some expensive osmos poly wax but I love how easy it is to work worth. Sounds like a similar application with this recipe.

I have used it on outdoor stuff. One wooden park bench a neighbor had on his back porch. I'm not sure how long it lasted because he moved a couple of months later, but I do find it needs a reapplication on my garden tools about once a year.