Liming wax and cerusing

Overview

Liming wax is a white-pigment wax that settles in the pores of open-grained wood. Real Milk Paint Co. describes it as best on open-grained woods such as oak and used with clear wax for protection. Fine Woodworking mentions pickling (thinned white paint) as a related effect. This entry covers the modern wax.

Pros

• Easy to apply and adjust.
• Strong grain contrast with little work.
• Works over a dyed or bleached ground (Wood bleaching).

Cons

• Wax gives little protection. Real Milk Paint Co. claims "water-resistant"; this is a manufacturer claim.
• Designed for open-grained wood; Real Milk Paint Co. says it is best there.
• Oily rag hazard.

Suitability

White oak and Red oak. Liberon says to wire-brush or use coarse paper on softwoods, and a liming brush on hardwoods to open the grain.

Coats and application

1. Open the grain with a liming brush (Liberon).
2. Optionally colour first with a wood dye such as Palette Wood Dye (Liberon); see Water-soluble dye stain.
3. Work wax into the grain with 0000 steel wool or lint-free cloth; wipe the excess; dry 3 minutes (Liberon).
4. Buff. Protect with clear wax.

Compatibility

Over bare or dyed wood, or over a thin sealer. Remove with Black Bison wax polish or finishing oil (Liberon). Keep other finishes off the pores until the wax is in.

Care and repair

Rewax as needed. To remove, use wax polish or oil (Liberon).

Safety and environment

Liberon cautions of self-combustion risk: wet soiled textiles with water and dispose of them in a tightly closed container.

Related

• Wood bleaching
• Milk paint
• Wood graining and faux finishes