Method 1: Grate + Iron
You will need:
- 1 bar of plant-based wax
- A grater
- Light cotton fabric (homespun or calico is ideal)
- Iron + flat surface (ironing board or table)
- Towel or old cloth to protect your ironing board or table
- 2 sheets of baking paper (bigger than your piece of fabric)
- Clothes-line (or something to hang on) + pegs
Start off by placing an old towel or cloth on your ironing board or table and then place your fabric on top of one sheet of baking paper and grate a fine layer of wax on top of the fabric. Start out with less, you can always add more if you aren’t happy with the thickness and consistency of the wrap.
Cover with the other sheet of baking paper. Turn your iron on to the hottest heat setting and make sure your steam is off. and start to iron the baking paper / fabric sandwich in slow, circular movements. The wax will melt and spread itself evenly across the fabric making any uncovered sections obvious to the eye. Lift the paper to check the consistency and make sure the entire piece of fabric is coated. If you are finding you have some dry patches or your wrap is too thin, grate some more wax on troublesome areas and repeat the process. The trick is to not make it too thick – this is why most DIY wraps crack.
Cotton fabrics are absorbent so the wax will seep through on to the other side giving the entire piece of fabric a coating of wax. Remove the fabric from the baking paper and hang it up to dry for a few minutes and you’re good to go!