Re: Beeswax Alternatives

[Bill Minter <wminter@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Some linen thread that is available has already been waxed by the  
manufacturer. That same thread may have been treated with other  
things, i.e. soap and silicone. Also, some of the thread that is  
available may have been bleached, but sold, unknowingly, as  
"unbleached" (a traditional term).
Do you need to wax the thread?  An unwaxed thread will possibly  
flatten and mould or conform better inside the signature.

If a wax is needed, how about Paraffin wax?
Bill Minter


On Mar 26, 2009, at 8:03 AM, Susan Green wrote:

> Hello list,
>
> I'm thinking about alternatives to beeswax for waxing linen thread.  
> I've heard that one vegan bookbinder uses microcystalline wax.  
> However, I'd quite like to avoid petroleum products,  so I'm  
> thinking about plant-derived substances. I used to play the cello  
> and used rosin on my bows - I'd be interested to know if anyone has  
> any experience or opinions on using this in bookbinding, or has  
> some ideas for alternatives.
>
> Many thanks,
> Susan
>
> ------------------------------------
> Susan Green
> www.susangreenbooks.co.uk
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William Minter Bookbinding & Conservation, Inc.
4364 Woodbury Pike
Woodbury, PA  16695
814-793-4020
Fax:   814-793-4045
Email:    wminter@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx




                                   
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 Please note that attachments to listserv messages are not permitted,
           and are automatically removed by the listserver.
                                   
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