For those who may not be aware, beeswax is a very commonly used ‘finish’ on forged pieces. While the piece is still warm, you rub a block of beeswax on it, and the wax melts on.
In any case, I’ve been working my way through a couple of blocks of wax that I acquired when I was first getting started in smithing; and am getting near the end of my supply. I’ve also been wanting to experiment with another traditional finish that is a mix of beeswax, linseed oil and turpentine – but I haven’t wanted to melt down my limited supply of wax.
So I went on a search for beeswax from a local supplier… I am shocked by how much this stuff can sell for!!! The price for a small block of wax from a craft store (candle making section) is absolutely insane! You can get a larger block for a not-unreasonable price from a few places, such as Kayne & Son (Blacksmith’s Depot), however factoring in exchange rate and international shipping, it becomes a nuisance.
After a bit of searching, I found a supplier I’m very happy with: Busy Bee Beeswax in Tweed, Ontario. On their website, they have refined beeswax for sale for a fraction of the prices I’d seen elsewhere. Then I noticed this: “We also have industrial grades of beeswax suitable for purposes other than candles or skin care products. Inquire for details.” .
Well I inquired, and it’s exactly what I was looking for! The price is amazing, and the customer service was great. I’d highly recommend them to any other Canadian customers who wants to avoid the hassles of ordering internationally.
