Katherine has just posted a big batch of Soft Wax 2.0 to her etsy store. Thanks to her new Heating Mixing Filling Machine, we are able to make more wax with less waste and fewer first-degree burns (though I did stupidly touch the heating element of the machine).
In working with Katherine, I also noticed that she overfills the jars. As I was helping her, I filled each jar to the 8 ounce line.
“No dad,” she said. “I fill each one to the very top. I don’t want people to feel they are being cheated.” We then went back and filled all the jars to the very top.
So you are probably getting 9 oz. of wax. And after using her wax for awhile now, I think you can wax at least four chairs with one jar – not two, as I stated earlier.
Notes on the finish: This is the finish I use on my chairs. Katherine cooks it up here in the machine room using a waterless process. She then packages it in a tough glass jar with a metal screw-top lid. She applies her hand-designed label to each lid, boxes up the jars and ships them in a durable cardboard mailer. The money she makes from wax helps her make ends meet at college. Instructions for the wax are below.
Instructions for Soft Wax 2.0
Soft Wax 2.0 is a safe finish for bare wood that is incredibly easy to apply and imparts a beautiful low luster to the wood.
The finish is made by cooking raw, organic linseed oil (from the flax plant) and combining it with cosmetics-grade beeswax and a small amount of a citrus-based solvent. The result is that this finish can be applied without special safety equipment, such as a respirator. The only safety caution is to dry the rags out flat you used to apply before throwing them away. (All linseed oil generates heat as it cures, and there is a small but real chance of the rags catching fire if they are bunched up while wet.)
Soft Wax 2.0 is an ideal finish for pieces that will be touched a lot, such as chairs, turned objects and spoons. The finish does not build a film, so the wood feels like wood – not plastic. Because of this, the wax does not provide a strong barrier against water or alcohol. If you use it on countertops or a kitchen table, you will need to touch it up every once in a while. Simply add a little more Soft Wax to a deteriorated finish and the repair is done – no stripping or additional chemicals needed.
Soft Wax 2.0 is not intended to be used over a film finish (such as lacquer, shellac or varnish). It is best used on bare wood. However, you can apply it over a porous finish, such as milk paint.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS (VERY IMPORTANT): Applying Soft Wax 2.0 is so easy if you follow the simple instructions. On bare wood, apply a thin coat of soft wax using a rag, applicator pad, 3M gray pad or steel wool. Allow the finish to soak in about 15 minutes. Then, with a clean rag or towel, wipe the entire surface until it feels dry. Do not leave any excess finish on the surface. If you do leave some behind, the wood will get gummy and sticky.
The finish will be dry enough to use in a couple hours. After a couple weeks, the oil will be fully cured. After that, you can add a second coat (or not). A second coat will add more sheen and a little more protection to the wood.
Soft Wax 2.0 is made in small batches in Kentucky. Each glass jar contains 8 oz. of soft wax, enough for at least two chairs (probably four chairs).
I’ve enjoyed watching Catherine scale up her manufacturing process over the years. She has likely learned about how to scale up a process as well as running a small business. Not sure what her long term career goals are but no doubt there has been a lot of great business and manufacturing learnings in making soft wax. Do you two ever talk about this?
Katherine is in art school and graduates next year. My goal with this wax project was to give her confidence in running her own show. I don’t know where she will take this, but it has been good for everyone.
Bought two bottles; well packed and well shipped. Can’t wait to use it on my current reclaimed pine farm table project.
Agree with the first poster. If you can run a good small business, you can scale up a good product line and run a bigger one. Good luck, and Thanks.
I’m building a Rubio bench. Would this be a good finish or would you recommend something else?
I don’t like to put anything on the benchtop that will make it slicker. So for the last decade or so I’ve used only linseed oil. It doesn’t add slickness. And it helps repel glue from sticking to it.
The benefits of efficiency of scale.
“I don’t want people to feel they are being cheated.” You’ve taught her well.
Under promise and over deliver.
Bean seems pretty ferocious defending his jar of wax. Or were you just boring him to elicit that humongous yawn?
Is there an estimated shelf life for this product? I make jewelry boxes occassionally and slowly. Also, can it be sent as a gift without an enclosed receipt?
Hey Chris,
Does your daughter accept any type of pre-order. Ive been trying to buy a couple Jars for over a year but always seem to be a day or two late to snag a few.
Send her a note through etsy. She usually has a few jars on hand that are extra in case orders get lost in the mail