DebraM63

Thanks for the additional replies! Looks like I have some alternatives to experiment with!

Thanks for all the replies :) This is for an interior fireplace feature. I am leaning toward maybe just plain oils like the walnut oil and then when the oil dries, then wax over it. I think this calls for more experimentation. The oil also went over a chemically patina'd surface. Maybe there was some residue left over that we didn't see. Good info to know about the beeswax / paraffin not being food safe anymore after pigment colors are added. Its possible that maybe the metal oil from SN was not mixed enough and the wax component was too solid. I will also experiment more with that but maybe with some heat next time. This piece was 11 feet high with a large area of smooth sheet metal. Would a burnt metal finish be appropriate for that? Or would thinner metal like 18 ga. heat distort with that technique? I keep finding references to the linseed oil mixture. Will experiment with that as well. Thanks for the tips! I will let you know how it goes!

Hi all: I am looking for some suggestions for some reliable and consistent oil or oil and wax finishes for steel. We have been using Sculpt Nouveau metal oil which has wax in it as well as a hardener. On smaller surfaces it worked fine, but we did a large fireplace feature with smooth metal and we found that the wax kind of separates and then leaves streaks in the oil. First, has anyone used Sculpt Nouveau's metal oil and do you have any pointers on the streaking thing? Second, I have been reading about linseed oil mixed with wax and turpentine. How does that work on smooth flat surfaces? What oil can you substitute that is food safe? Any tips or other suggestions on a good consistent seal for steel would be very much appreciated... Thanks!