Waxing Cheese Using Beeswax

In the days prior to refrigeration, cheese was stored in either its own rind that formed or it was brushed or dipped in melted wax.  This method is still used today by artisanal cheese makers, commercial cheese makers and hobbyists.  This method can also be used to put store bought cheese in long term storage.

It is important to note that unlike commercially available cheese waxes that contain paraffin (a petroleum product) beeswax is more brittle and can lead to cracking when used in its pure form.  This problem can be alleviated by blending the beeswax with a vegetable based oil.  I found the following recipe:

CHEESE WAX (Ounces by weight): 
16 ounces beeswax 
3 ounces vegetable shortening

I have also seen mineral oil used as an adjunct.

Further instruction on cheese waxing and using store bought cheese:

Organic Surfboard Wax Recipe

A simple organic surfboard wax can be made with 2 or 3 natural ingredients, depending upon the recipe.

Recipe 1:  Warm water

Beeswax

Coconut oil- found at most supermarkets

As with most beeswax recipes you will need a double boiler, a simple pot inside of a pot partially filled with water will suffice.  Beeswax and coconut oil are flammable and direct heat should be avoided, not to mention high heat will impart a burnt smell to the mixture.

Add 4 parts beeswax to one part coconut oil and warm on medium heat until all solids are melted.  Pour into a muffin tin or other container that will serve as a mold.  Enclose in plastic wrap or a container and store in a cool dry place.

Recipe 2: Cold water

Beeswax

Coconut oil

Tree resin (also goes by pine resin, rosin, colophony)

Tree resin

It can be found on Ebay and around the web.  It can even be collected if you are adventurous. 

Use the double boiler as mentioned above, but this time slowly melt 3 parts beeswax 1 part coconut oil and 1 part tree resin.  Pour the liquid into a mold and allow to set up.  

Note on both recipes, if you don't get the consistency you desire, simply remelt the surfboard wax and add slightly more beeswax(beeswax/tree resin) for a harder tackier consistency or add slightly more coconut oil for a smoother consistency.  

Moustache Wax Recipes

Moustache Wax

In valuable for an unruly moustache, moustache wax will tame the rowdiest of whiskers.  Recipes for homemade wax can be very basic to more involved.

The simplest is equal parts beeswax and petroleum jelly.  Just gently melt in a double boiler, it can also be done in a microwave, just be careful to not overheat.

For a stiffer wax use 60% beeswax and 40% petroleum jelly.

For more recipes and tips on using moustache wax:

http://www.handlebarclub.co.uk/waxindex.shtml

Melt and Pour Beeswax Soap

Beeswax Soap

 4 oz unscented, clear glycerin soap
 1 tsp grated beeswax
 About 10 drops of fragrance/essential oil
 1-2 drops food coloring (optional)

   Best done in a double boiler to ensure even heating. Melt the soap until liquid. Grate beeswax and add to te melted soap. No need for heating much above 145 degrees. Too hot and the beeswax and fragrance can "burn off". Now add the fragrance and food coloring. Stir thoroughly. Pour into a mold and let it set overnight.