Let's Talk About Wax

If you are new to the paint series this is day 22 of 31 days of the Power of Paint. If you'd like to see the entire series click  HERE.

Let's Talk About Wax

There is a lot of talk in blogland about finishing wax. There are all sorts of specialty waxes out there. But I use good old Minwax. Who hasn't heard of Minwax? But have you tried it? I found this bright yellow can at my local Ace Hardware. It comes in several tints. I use it on furniture that I have painted or stained. It gives the perfect "hard, dry, oil-less polish" that is not extremely shiny like a polyurethane. It is easier to work with than polyurethane and has a lot less odor. It has an odor, but nothing like polyurethane. It is also easy to apply.

I used Paste Finishing Wax in a Natural Finish on the VOICE sign I posted about yesterday because acrylic craft paint is chalky, flat and is easily scratched. I picked a small corner of the sign (above) and applied a test patch of the wax using a soft clean cloth (old dish towel). I suggest wearing gloves and following the safety directions on the can. I applied the wax in the direction of the wood grain, working in small areas. I rubbed it on from top to bottom (not in a circular motion). Let it dry 10-15 minutes and polished it using the other side of the clean cloth this time using a circular motion. I applied 2 coats, the more coats you build up, the more shine.

I discovered that it is nearly impossible to take a photo of the sheen. But what matters is that adds a hard protective coat that I can wipe down or dust as needed without fear of scratching the paint.

I also used the wax on my chippy frame to preserve the chippy paint. It worked great. This 1lb can of wax has lasted forever, I have used it on my Stenciled Chairs, Red Night Stand and Little Blue Chair and haven't even really dented it. 

P.S.- I am not paid by any one to endorse any product.  I am just giving my opinion.

Minwax does not even know I exist. {Yet?}