Preparing Different Waxes?

Question

I know how to mix shellac - dissolve in alcohol. I also have to use some of the following and am not sure as to the procedure:

* beeswax pellets (simply melt or dissolve in alcohol?)

* carnauba wax pellets (simply melt or dissolve in alcohol?)

* paraffin wax pellets (simply melt or dissolve in alcohol?)

* montan wax pellets (simply melt or dissolve in alcohol?)

* microcrystalline wax pellets (simply melt or dissolve in alcohol?)

Could you also state how to apply each to surfaces?

Thanks.

Answer 1

You do not dissolve any of the waxes in alcohol. They won''t. They are sometimes softened by melting and mixing with mineral spirits but this is not necessary. To apply to finished wood I use either a soft cloth or super fine steel wool. ( # 0000 ) When using cloth I melt the wax and soak the cloth then let it cool. After that I just rub the cloth on the wax when I need more.