Properties Of Beeswax Vs. Paraffin?

[JDM]

In which applications and why is one more useful to you than the other?

I'm asking because I haven't used paraffin in leatherworking, and I'm wondering what properties or benefits it has compared to beeswax.

I've used a mixture of beeswax and rosin to wax my linen thread.

I've used a mixture of neatsfoot oil and beeswax as a finish application.

I've read of using paraffin for burnishing edges and various other things, but I don't understand what qualities it provides.

[Red Cent]

Paraffin has been called bondo for the leather crafter. On difficult edges, I may rub on a generous layer of paraffin and apply a heat gun to have it absorbed. When burnishing, the paraffin will hold down most spots that created bumps before. I rarely use beeswax, paraffin, or glycerin soap bar any more.

[electrathon]

I use beeswax on thread for hand sewing. I use paraffin on lace. They do not interchange well for the two, one is sticky, one is slippery.

Aaron

[JDM]

I'll try some paraffin next time I encounter a stubborn edge. When I experimented with vinegaroon I couldn't get the edges burnished nearly as nice as the same untreated leather. The 'roon treatment seemed to change the leather.

Edited April 11, 2014 by JDM

[ramrod]

if the roon has changed the leather, you might have to neutralize it after treatment.

[SilverBear]

I use beeswax on thread for hand sewing. I use paraffin on lace. They do not interchange well for the two, one is sticky, one is slippery.

Aaron

Can you give some tips on how to use the paraffin and tell us why you use it? Is it just so you get less wear on the lace as you work or does it help the leather even after you are done with it?

[Red Cent]

One of the best edges I have seen in my work comes from a drum dyed double shoulder. In this case it was a dark brown. The edge looks like a spit shine.

[electrathon]

Can you give some tips on how to use the paraffin and tell us why you use it? Is it just so you get less wear on the lace as you work or does it help the leather even after you are done with it?

It is so that the lace will pull in with less stretch and less wear on it. If you pull it in un-lubricated it can look tattered by the time you get the lacing done.

[SilverBear]

It is so that the lace will pull in with less stretch and less wear on it. If you pull it in un-lubricated it can look tattered by the time you get the lacing done.

So how do you apply it just rub the lace across a block of paraffin on both sides? Melt the paraffin with some mineral oil to make a paste and rub it in?

[electrathon]

So how do you apply it just rub the lace across a block of paraffin on both sides? Melt the paraffin with some mineral oil to make a paste and rub it in?

Just pinch the lace between your thumb and the paraffin. Pull the lace through a few times. I often use a white candle.