Sanding using wax

[cwearing]

I see several videos on U-Tube where the turner is sanding with wax. What are the pros and cons of this method?

 

[robo hippy]

Well, I don't know. The main idea of adding a lubricant like that is to ease sanding and loading of your abrasives. I would think that most waxes can load up your abrasives, and water, soapy water, and oils are more common.

robo hippy

 

[john lucas]

wax helps lubricate and lets the sandpaper cut better. It does load up. I don't do it like i used to but i used to sand the interior of my boxes and use that as a final finish as well. Very fast and effective. I'll be interested to hear from others who use this because it's been a long while since i did it.

 

[Glen Blanchard]

I use this method, but only on African Blackwood which, for me, limits it to finials and such.

 

[Rik Rickerson]

One of the turners uses this method to reduce the airborne particulates from sanding.

 

[DUANE POLING]

I have seen this method and believe it is if you are wanting to sand and finish in one motion especially if a wax/oil finish is desired result. My reason for that statement is if you use wax and impregnate the wood with the wax/oil solution, you will not be able to use other finishes over it such as lac or poly as they will not adhere due to the wax.
I use alot of lac finishes and seal the wood then wet sand with mineral spirits to minimize the grain raise. this has worked well for me.
Thanks

 

[Rik Rickerson]

I have seen this method and believe it is if you are wanting to sand and finish in one motion especially if a wax/oil finish is desired result...
Thanks

Makes sense. The turner I referred to uses the wax/oil combination from sanding to final finish.

 

[Bob Howell]

I find it useful for 220- 320 grit and up, on dense tropical hardwoods. Also on other woods after a sealing coat.

Years ago I remember Ray Key recommending it to cut down on checking because it reduces friction and hence heat.

Bob Howell