Tips and Techniques for Waxing Wood and Rubbing Wood

If you enjoy wood furniture in your home, then you already know the beauty and style that it brings to any room or exterior environment. Perhaps you also enjoy the many pleasures associated in working with wood, including the rubbing of wood surfaces and the subsequent waxing of the wood. If you are new to the idea of working with wood finishes, then the information on rubbing and waxing laid out here should be of great value to you. If you have worked with wood products before, then perhaps you'll find something new to add to your bank of knowledge.

To begin, you will require a lubricant as well as an abrasive of sorts for the actual rubbing of the wood. Many oils can serve the purpose of lubricating such as paraffin, or even water if oil isn't readily available. Whichever method is used, it should be applied with a thin, uniform film across the surface of the wood.

When rubbing wood for a more matted type of finish, ground pumice ( grade FFFF) works very well. Avoid excessive amounts by sprinkling lightly over the work area. Rubbing the abrasive with a felt block (such as a chalkboard eraser), or a cork pad gets the job done with very good results, just be sure to always move in the direction of the wood grain as you rub. Replenish the lubricant as necessary to maintain consistency. Some woodworkers utilize a rubbing compound intended for auto paint finishes, and recommend it for wood as well. But they don't stop there, some also use automotive wax for the finishing touch creating an even, glossy appearance in the surface of the wood.

Most wax is relatively easy to apply to wood and subsequent coats over time present no problems, so renewal is just as easy. Care should be taken however, in the application of the wax to the wood. Be certain to distribute the wax evenly over the wood using a large circular motion. A thin film is all you want to apply as too much wax can create a dull looking, sticky feel to the wood. Allow the wax to dry until it turns cloudy or white. This may range between 20-40 minutes. After the wax has fully dried, it can be buffed out with a soft cotton cloth. If the surface is large and you possess an electric buffer (with a clean lamb's wool style pad), then this can be used on the wood with excellent results.

To learn more, talk with your local wood products dealer about your particular woodworking project in order to get the tools and materials you need.

And remember, always work safely.