Replies

1. 
   GW52 | Nov 16, 2006 07:32pm | #1

   Ed,

   I have used Minwax paste wax on all of my cast iron tops and it does a good job. Every now and then I reapply it and I have not had a rust problem for some time.

   Greg

2. 
   JimV | Nov 16, 2006 08:24pm | #2

   Ed,

   Personally, I wouldn't use pure beeswax, as it tends to stay a bit sticky and grabby, definitely not what you want on a table saw. Personally, I like either Minwax paste wax or butcher block. Just make sure there's no silicone in the mix.

   Jim

   "There are two spiritual dangers in not owning a farm. One is the danger of supposing that breakfast comes from the grocery, and the other is that heat comes from the furnace." - Aldo Leopold
3. 
   nikkiwood | Nov 16, 2006 10:54pm | #3

   I don't think beeswax is probably the best choice.

   Any reason you don't want to use a regular furniture wax -- e.g. Minwax, Johnson's, Butchers, etc.?

   ********************************************************
   "It is what we learn after we think we know it all, that counts."

   John Wooden 1910-

4. 
   wdrite | Nov 17, 2006 03:55am | #4

   I have used beeswax desolved in mineral spirits and mixed with some linseed oil on saw tables.  I had it mixed as a wood finish and it was handy.  When you put it on, rub it in good and then wipe off all that  you can.  If you leave much on the surface, it gets gummy.  Sometimes I'll rub a block of beeswax on a saw table, handsaw, plane bottom or miter gage for lubrication purposed but for rust on a machin top. I use WD40.  Use it often in humid weather and wipe it off leaving a very thin film.  Johnson's paste wax is also good on these things .  It is easier to apply than beeswax , prevents rust and reduces friction.

5. 
   JLMCDANIEL | Nov 17, 2006 07:23am | #5

   If you want something in-expensive, get a roll of kitchen wax paper. Tear off a piece, crumble it up, and rub the saw table with it. Works very well.

   Jack

6. 
   Dave45 | Nov 17, 2006 05:05pm | #6

   A couple of times a year, I go over my saw table with some glass cleaner and a green scrubbing pad then put on an automotive paste wax.

7. 
   EdK | Nov 17, 2006 06:43pm | #7

   Thanks everyone,

   I found some Bees wax in my wife's art and craft supplies and thought it might work. I'll try the was paper or minwax route instead.

    

   Ed

1. 
   forestgirl | Nov 17, 2006 07:46pm | #8

   "I found some Bees wax in my wife's art and craft supplies and thought it might work. I'll try the was paper or minwax route instead."  I can think of a couple reasons that might be a good move, LOL!!

   Someone above mentioned using automotive paste was.  That's generally not recommended, as it contains additives (silicone?) that can affect finishes.  Beeswax is extremely hard, and difficult to buff out, which is why it tends to remain sticky.  I've used both Minwax and Johnson's Paste Wax.  The Minwax has more solvent in it, which seems to mess up my waxing routine, but it works fine.  There are recipes out there for making your own mixture too.forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 

1. 
   user-54856 | Nov 18, 2006 01:42am | #9

   Speaking of bee's wax, I once heard that traditional cabinetmakers often used bee's wax diluted in terpentine to coat and protect the raw inner surfaces of solid wood cabinets. Any ideas on that? Does anyone have experience? What is the ratio of wax to terpentine by weight, volume, or whatever?

1. 
   forestgirl | Nov 18, 2006 02:15am | #10

   I suspect to a large extent it (the proportions) is simply a matter of preference.  The more turpentine, the softer the wax.  I've seen various recipes over the years, but never ventured to try them.  Here's an interesting article from Australia on making beeswax furniture polish.  Note in one of the recipes they combine it with carnuba.

   If you're a paying member of the FWW site, you can find quite a few articles on waxes in woodworking.forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 

1. 
   user-54856 | Nov 18, 2006 06:08am | #11

   Charter subscriber. Thanks