When we make our wooden toys here in Ginger Forest we always finished them with a light coat of beeswax polish. It gives the toys a wonderful feeling and while still allowing the feeling of the wood to come through. As these toys get played with, it is advisable to reapply a coat of polish every 6 months to a year (use your own discretion). Whether you are polishing up our toys or ones you've lovingly made yourself, it is easy to make your own polish at home with just a small amount of effort.
All you'll need is a heat proof container ( I like mason jars) a pot for water, a block of beeswax and some olive oil. It really couldn't be easier. Cut or grate a chunk of beeswax from the block and place it in your jar. Set the jar into a pot with some water, and put it to simmer on the stove top. Let it melt slowly, so resist the urge to set the burner to high. Once it's melted and you can see more clearly what the amount in your jar is, add olive oil to a ratio of 1 part beeswax 3 parts olive oil. I recommend using organic products whenever you have the option. You'll notice that the addition of olive oil may cause your beeswax to solidify slightly, but not to worry. Let it continue to simmer in the pot of water until everything is melted. At this point, you can add a drop or two of essential oil if you like (for our shop, we do not, as some people don't enjoy it). Carefully remove the jar from the heat and leave it on the countertop to cool. When it is completely solidified, you can scrap a small amount off and polish your beautiful toys with it. We recommend using a soft cotton or felt cloth to do this.
That's all there is to it! Happy polishing!
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