Using the Daige Procote Hand Waxer

Continuing our thread on Repositionable Art, the tips here will give you the information you need to create your own portable stenciling using an art waxer.

Tips for Using the Daige Procote Hand Waxer

by Maria LaMalfa

1. Plug the waxer in and let it heat for at least a half hour; an hour is better. Do not use the melted wax as a guide; the wax will melt long before the metal roller is warm enough to work properly. Make sure the well is filled with wax; if not add some wax sticks.
2. Cover work surface with paper and place artwork on top. Do not use newspaper because the ink will lift and may roll onto the back of your artwork.
3. When the waxer has warmed enough, roll it firmly and slowly over the back of the artwork. The orange rollers have a little “give” – make sure you press down as you roll to ensure an even flow of wax. The waxed surface should be 100% covered and the coat will look ridged and uneven. If not, try rolling more slowly or pressing down a little harder. If this doesn’t work, check if you need to feed more wax into the unit – either way, let it sit another 10 minutes.
4. Make sure the edges have a good coating of wax.
5. When the artwork is completely waxed, feed some more wax sticks into the waxer before you unplug it. This will give you a head start for next time. If you don’t, next time you will have to wait until the wax melts before you can lift the cover and put in more wax sticks.
6. Cover the waxed surface with kitchen-type waxed paper. This will protect the surface from picking up debris. Roll the artwork loosely to transport to work site.
7. Mark out where the artwork needs to be placed — use blue tape or watercolor pencil to outline the area. Position the artwork and press down with your hands to adhere. When you are sure it is in the correct position, use a rubber brayer to firmly roll over the whole surface. If there are any areas that are not staying down, such as an edge, try using an old credit card to press down. If this still does not work, you may need to melt a little bit of wax in a disposable container on low heat in a microwave, then apply to resistant edge with a brush.
8. Remove any stray wax marks with Candle Wax Remover, by Un-Do. Squirt a little into a rag and go over the unwanted wax. The wax will dissolve and be picked up by the rag. There is no need to rub the surface of the artwork — if you do, you might increase the sheen of the finish in that area. The Wax Remover will not harm a waterbased protective layer.