Making a profit is not the intent when selling this product! In fact, we will share the recipe and information related to sourcing and making this product so that, if you choose to do so, you can make it on your own! We use a simple, age old combination of oil and wax to make our wood finish/conditioner.
MAKING THE FINISH/CONDITIONER
We use pesticide free, expeller pressed jojoba oil (available on Amazon) and locally sourced beeswax (great sources for beeswax can also be found on Amazon) in a 4-to-1 ratio, by volume, when making our wood finish/conditioner. We also add a few drops of orange oil (optional) for a little extra luster and pleasant smell! Simply grab a measuring cup, fill to the desired level with 4 parts jojoba oil, then add 1 part beesway until the oil reaches the appropriate level in the measuring cup. Typically, when making a batch, we will fill a 4 cup measuring cup to the 2 cup line with jojoba oil, then add beeswax until the oil reaches the 2 1/2 cups, then add just a few drops of orange oil (again, optional). *You can either poor the mixture into a double boiler and slowly heat until the mixture is melted together, or you can microwave the mixture in 30 second intervals, stirring between intervals, until the mixture is melted together. Then, simply poor the mixture into whatever container you desire to store it in (preferrably one with a lid). It will eventually cool and "harden" to a balm or chapstick-like consistancy. Feel free to adjust the ratio as desired for different consistancies!
PRODUCT CARE
Never put any wood product in the dish washer. If the use of water can be avoided when cleaning, please do so. If water is necessary for cleaning, use warm water and a mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly, then allow to dry completely. Once dry, apply sufficiant wood finish/conditioner to cover the wood. Allow to sit for 20 to 30 minutes, then simply wipe off the excess finish. If additional luster is desired, buff lightly with a soft cotton cloth. Wood has a tendancy to move over time and after exposure to water. Additionally, fine grain "hairs" can raise after exposure to water. If this occurs, use 220 grit sandpaper (or finer) to lightly sand the raised grain smooth, then apply wood finish/conditioner in the same manner as previously mentioned.
OTHER OPTIONS
Other oils and waxes can be used. Be certain to understand the nature of both the oil and wax used. Some oils will become rancid over time (i.e. olive oil or vegitable oil) which can give off a very unpleasant odor. Other oils present different issues. Take, for example, walnut oil. though it is beautiful, hardens over time, and will not go rancid, it can present dangerous health concerns if applied to food-handeling products that will be used to prepare food for someone who is allergic to walnuts/tree nuts. Food-grade mineral oil is a popular alternative, but this oil is derived from processing patroleum. We refuse to use any oil that is not from a natural source.
USE CAUTION
Please be extra careful if you decide to make this mixture yourself. Oil and wax can be dangerous when heating, and particularly difficult to remove from the skin when hot! Every microwave is different, so use caution (and a microwave safe dish) if you decide to use this method of heating. Also, always use caution and be familiar with how to handle an oil fire before heating any type of oil! NEVER apply water to an oil fire!
*We are not responsible for any attempt to make this product on your own.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] if you have any questions at all about product care or about making your own wood finish/conditioner!
