There are many varieties and grades of prepared wax on sale by dealers. Some of these possess considerable merit. Common beeswax made soft by adding a small quantity of turpentine is quite equal to any prepared wax.

The wax is first put on with a brush or rubbed on with a cloth or bit of waste and then the surface very thoroughly rubbed. When the surface becomes dingy or loses its fresh appearance, more wax may be applied in the same manner. Wax is one of the safest sorts of finish to apply, but requires considerable rubbing to produce a good finish. There is little danger of applying too much, for any surplus will be removed in the rubbing. Where the wood has been first stained the rubbing must not be so hard as to remove the stain. This caution is especially necessary when rubbing around corners or on raised surfaces.