Making Homemade Wax

In my two most recent columns, I discussed the process of using flexible wax and a homemade wax pen to draw the shapes of a wax model used in casting a jewelry object.

- BOB RUSH

Fabricating this model is only possible due to the formulation of the wax. The essential characteristic of this wax is its ability to melt and flow while maintaining a durable shape that is controlled by the temperature of the wax pen and the formula of the wax.

I find that waxes often used to build up models, to create the desired shape are difficult to control because they don’t have the viscosity and strength to allow control of their shape as you work with them. For instance, if you try to draw a prong onto a stone, they flatten out and lack any strength or flexibility. As you try to pull them away from the stone so you can remove it, they quickly break off. To me, this is frustrating.