Re: Re: [Harp-L] An Addition to "Beeswax Sealing and Customizing Marine Bands"

["Tim Moyer" <wmharps@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Matt Smart wrote:
> I use chapstick (non scented) it works fine and non permanent.

I want to point out that this is NOT the same as the beeswax sealing 
methods described in the referred post.  Applying a layer of 
chapstick or other lip balm to an unfinished wood comb might act as 
a temporary gasket, but not as a sealant.  

The idea with beeswax dipping procedures is to get the wax INTO and 
not ONTO the wood.  This helps to inhibit the absorbtion of moisture 
into the wood during playing.  In fact, an important step in the 
process is removing as much wax from the outside of the comb as 
possible, to prevent migration into the reeds.  

Beeswax is not all that effective at sealing the wood; it is still 
susceptible to swelling after treatment.  If you want a more 
complete seal, use water-based urethane or shelac (although the 
latter in particular might require periodic retreatment).

-tim

Tim Moyer
Working Man's Harps
http://www.workingmansharps.com/