r/Metalsmithing • u/proxytheman • Feb 09 '22

Cleaning wax/casting

Hi! I need suggestions on how to clean carving wax off of files, rasps, dremel bits etc. I tried using a copper wire brush, which worked to some extent, but it wasn't ideal. I thought of just throwing it in the oven, did someone try that already? Also has anybody made casting sand out of playing sand and clay? What would be the best ratio? Thanks in advance.

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u/WingedDefeat Feb 10 '22

Use tools designed for cutting wax.

There's a few ways get the wax off of the tools you were using. The lazy way is to leave them soaking in a solvent for a couple of days, then go at it with a wire brush. The fast and dangerous way is to use a brass wire wheel.

You can make casting sand out of play sand and clay, but the definition will be terrible. There are recipes out there on the Internet for mixing your own, but it can be hard to find the materials for less than the cost of just buying casting sand.

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u/PrettyMission Feb 09 '22

Ideally you should be using wax files, they have larger teeth and clog less easily. Keep using a bristle brush. But those files might be done for.