RE: Need a quick finish for tool handles

[David Conley]

Everyone,

I am making handles for carving tools and socket chisels.  I am using Cherry scraps for the carving tools and Black Locust for the leather backed socket chisels.   

What type of finish do you use?

I was thinking about experimenting with beeswax.  I had heard that I should use about 4 parts beeswax and 1 part oil.  But, I am not sure what kind of oil, or does that even matter. 

Thanks in advance,
David

[Bert Bleckwenn]

As  a woodturner, I use a very basic finish for tool handles consisting of liberal amount of BLO followed by a HUT wax.   I apply both while the handle is on the lathe  and use friction/heat to increase penetration.... usually a couple quick soakings of BLO, wipe off then press the HUT wax bar into it while spinning followed by lots of pressure to melt it in while spinning.  I make tool handles for local blacksmiths and have made replacement handles for one of our local large steam engine enthusiast with great success.   Looks good on black walnut and hickory handles.   With cherry would definitely want to pop the grain with some type of oil as well.

Most any oil will work, as I've used teak oil, tung oil and Herbal Oil on occasions because the're handy.... nice thing about any oil is it will accentuate the grain.  I don't care to wait for the oil to dry/cure (such as tung oil) so BLO is my go-to default.

For wax, the HUT turner's wax stick has a mixture of carnuaba and beeswax, but I've also just used plan beeswax as well.   The carnuaba wax provides a little more hardness.

The oil/wax finish provides some basic protection and provides a matt finish look.... I like to think that is what our ancestors reached for when making a lot of utilitarian turned items.   And after some use, they develop a nice patina appropriate for functional handles.

[Antiquity]

David,

I just use the same finish that I use on furniture.  Simple! Don't over think it.

Dennis Bork
Antiquity Period Designs, Ltd.

[David Conley]

Bert and Dennis,

Thanks for the responses!!

I was looking at making up an wax-oil paste using beeswax and mineral oil.  What was confusing me were the ratios that I was getting on the internet.  The wax to oil wax ratios varied from 6:1 to 1:5.  That lends itself to Dennis? comment about not over thinking it.  (As many of you know, I love to over think things.  These discussions are half the fun of it!!   )

For the initial finish, I think Bert has a point in letting the wood soak in all the oil it wants, instead of setting the ratio at some arbitrary number.  After the initial oil soak, use a ratio that is high in wax like 4:1. 

Thanks!!
David