Beeswax Waterproofing...again

[Desert Rat]

Actually I have more of a question. I am making a couple of bags that I want to waterproof with beeswax. A couple of years ago I used some toilet wax rings mixed with parafin to make some candles because I heard that the rings were beeswax. Does anyone know if they actually are? The candles worked great by the way.

 

[Black Hand]

I think they might contain some beeswax, but I'm sure it is mixed with other junk to make it soft and squishy. I would get some pure beeswax.

 

[Birdman]

Rat there is probably enough bees wax in them to "legaly" say its in there but most of the stuff they use today are petrolium based waxs. It might be an interesting experiment to try it on a small piece of cloth n see what happens though.

 

[markinstettler]

There must be a nearby apiary that can supply you with some real beeswax. A smaller operation is more likely to entertain a small buyer like yourself. Beekeeping clubs are fairly common and worth checking out.

Failing that, there's always canning wax.

Earlier this week I stopped by our local apiary and bought 5 pounds of unprocessed beeswax (it had just been melted/pressed into blocks). They wanted $2.50/pound, but I got it for $2. After melting the stuff down, filtering it, and casting it in dessert bowls, I realized that 5 pounds is a lot. A pound probably would have covered my needs nicely.

Unprocessed beeswax smells of honey and makes really pleasant smelling candles. I would rather pay more for beeswax than make candles out of something that could contain just about anything. As far as health is concerned, it is probably better to just not burn candles at all.

 

[Andy Mueller]

I would use true beeswax. You can also get it at Joann's Fabric store, but it'll be about 10.00 a lb. but as stated before, a lb is all you'll need. I recommend it because a) its authentic b) it tends to be stronger/firmer than other waxes so it doesn't rub off as easily and C) the most important, it has a higher melting point. That might not seem to be an important factor, but it truly is. If you leave it out where its too hot, it could be the difference between melting or not. just my 2 cents worth
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