beeswax or matt black pan rack

I thought it would be an idea to explain the difference in finishes between a beeswax finish and matt black paint.

Beeswax is a natural wax that is applied to the metal as soon as it is forged, while it is still hot. Once cool, it gives the metal a protective coating yet has no colour. The result is a piece of ironwork with a ‘sheen’. It allows the natural colour and grain of the metal to stand out.

Great for the purists who want their metal to look as natural as possible.

It does have a slightly tacky feel when it is new. It will wear away in places after a while allowing possible moisture to oxidize the metal. Some people like this as the metal will age and change colour over time.

Matt black is an all over paint. It is a consistent finish that will wear better than the beeswax and not change in colour over time. It can be wiped clean and made to look new again with some graphite paste. It is more suited in a damp area.

You will loose some of the natural beauty of the steel with matt black but it does have its own appeal and looks great in almost any area.

The photo above is of a piece of iron I finished in beeswax(bottom) and matt black(top). See which one you like best!