RE: Wax

> Hey, am I ever delighted at your comments. I have been working in total
> isolation as I have not known where to find resources and it is wonderful
> to receive input into the subject of wax. Forgive my ignorance but what is
> toluene, who is George Frank and where do I find Fine Woodworking?
> Susan McLoughlin



Martin O'Brien writes:

Susan,
    
There is no ignorance to forgive,  ask any question you want, this groop
really is dedicated to education.  Here's my attempt to answer some of your
questions.
    
Toluene is derived from petroleum (it's an aromatic hydrocarbon), it is one of 
the main ingredients in laquers and lacquer thinner.  It is more hazardous than 
mineral spirits both to furniture finishes and humans, it's supposed to be a 
carcinogen.  It is sold under the name Toluol in hardware centers.  Over the 
years I have seen wax manufacturers cease using toluene in their waxes so 
Toluene will become less and less of an issue as time goes on.  

My experience is that if it is in a wax, it will soften a finish, particularly
a new one.
    
George Frank was one of the old masters of wood finishing.  I knew him
personally so I am very biased and therefore think he was an artistic treasure.  
I'm sure that everybody would acknowledge his influence.  He wrote two books: 
 "Adventures in Wood Finishing"  and "Wood Finishing with George Frank."  
The recipe for the water wax is in the "Adventures" book.   He also wrote many 
articles for Fine Woodworking Magazine.
    
Fine Woodworking Magazine can be found at most newstands or bookstores.

Or  at www.taunton.com/fw/


MartinO


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>>where do I find Fine Woodworking? 

Susan,

Fine Woodworking is widely available at newstands and bookstores.  
Ask for it and they will bring you to it.  You just gotta' get this issue. . .
it is very complete. . .more than I ever new about waxes and their application.

~RichC.

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Could someone post George Franks "formula and technique" 
for making waterbased emulsion wax.  

Thanks,

Jim Rice


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