Tool Preserver
By Leslie Roberts, adapted from Ecology Action's Newsletter, August 2001

Everything You Need to Keep Your Tools Conditioned
PHOTO CREDIT: Leslie Roberts

This tool preserver is a great homemade liniment for every wooden-handled tool you use. Use sparingly, as a light coat goes a long way to keep the wood supple and protected.

How to Make a Tool Preserver

Ingredients
½ c vegetable oil, any oil will work. I happened to have peanut oil on hand.
1 oz (28.5 grams) beeswax
Drops of essential oil of your choice, optional

Instructions

If the beeswax is solid, shave or cut it into small pieces. The 1-oz packet I purchased at the natural foods grocery store came in small disks. Place the beeswax in a small microwave-safe bowl and heat on high at one-minute intervals, stirring after each minute until thoroughly melted. The bowl will become hot so handle carefully. Do not overheat or the melted wax will spatter inside the microwave. Add the vegetable oil and essential oil, if using. If thewax solidifies slightly after adding the oils, reheat in the microwave to blend completely. Immediately pour into a clean glass jar and label. Store in a cool place.

To apply

Make sure the wood is clean and dry.Use your hand to spread a light coat over the wood. Let it soak in overnight. If the tool handle is especially weathered and the first application is completely absorbed, you can apply a second coat. Works well on wooden handles in the kitchen too!

 

 

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