The Handlebar Club Forum

I am working on concocting my own wax (I've got attempt #2 in the 'tache right now), using beeswax and petroleum jelly. I want a wax that is very stiff and also resists water, a major consideration in the English weather. Beeswax is, of course, a very stiff substance, and I think I have it cut with just enough jelly so it forms a film instead of balling up on my fingers as the first attempt did. However, in doing so the wax loses some of its stiffness. I thought of trying some gum arabic, but it's water soluable. Does anyone have a recommendation for a non-water soluable additive to put in the wax to improve stiffness?

Hi Nick D!
You can try to add some carnauba wax - which will provide real stiffness.
Keep away from gum arabic - it doesn't really work together with beeswax (I have already tried this out). And gum arabic is water soluble...

Good luck!

Peter

A formula I tried at home with gum arabic is for a pomade, which will be water soluble. I was looking for naturally liquid or soft waxes and didnt find any. Gave up. Making the pomade was way too much work.

Gum Arabic seemed to work ok with me! Though I like my wax to wash out easily!
I still get good holding power!