Leigh Ann and I are antiques collectors, but we also live with our collection, which means our antique dining room table occasionally needs some extra protection — without looking over-refinished and brand new.
When that time comes, I reach for Minwax® Paste Finishing Wax, available in “Natural” for light-colored woods and in “Dark” for stained pieces, such as our dining room table. I applied the wax with a heavy-duty paper towel, then let it harden, which only took about five minutes.
I then reach for my favorite buffing tool: a soft, often-washed, worn-out cotton sock. I slip it over my hand like a mitten, then begin buffing the wax in the direction of the grain of the wood. When the cotton fibers fill up with extra wax, I simply rotate the sock for a fresh, clean surface.
What I love about a hand-rubbed Paste Finishing Wax finish is that the results are not dramatic. Antiques don’t like drama. They like a natural, protective finish that preserves their sometimes worn appearance while at the same time giving them more protection so that we can use them in our busy lives.
Until next time,
Save a family heirloom!
Thanks!
Bruce
