Blacksmithing

Beeswax is used to finish ironwork. It gives it a beautiful sheen while retaining all of the texture of the forged work and also helps prevent rust. To make a polish mix 1 part Mineral Spirits and 1 part Linseed Oil then melt in bee's wax to make an oil rub for iron. Add enough beeswax to give the mixture a consistency of motor oil.

Bronze preservation

Bronze statues should be coated twice a year with a solution consisting of 1/3 pound of pure beeswax dissolved in one quart of pure pine turpentine. This solution is to be brushed over the statue in a swirling motion, using round semi-stiff hair brushes. Let solution dry for 24 hours, then rub lightly with a felt, velvet or wool pad, to only the high points of the statue so as to leave the depressions with a shadow effect. Care must be taken to apply the solution to the statue only when the statue is dry.

Removing previous waxes

Emulsify the dirt and wax in a solution of water/gum turpentine (1:1) with 2–5% Igepal, CO-630, a non-ionic wetting agent, and 1% Aerosol-OT, an emulsifier. The most successful method is to lay a soaked diaper compress on the surface, wait 15 minutes for the wax to be emulsified, and then wipe the emulsified wax off with a second saturated diaper. Stiff brushes and nylon pads are essential for cleaning out details such as hair and folds.

After the first solvent strip, wash the sculpture, with a 5–10% aqueous solution of a commercial detergent and grease cutterto help remove remaining traces of wax and emulsified run-off.

Thanks to Robert Williamson for allowing us to use this information on blacksmithing and Bronze preservation!