scottosan
Well-known member
Because why not. Since moving to Japan I came across a paste:balm based fretboard conditioner. It was the best I had used and lasted almost 2 years because it not being a liquid, you don’t waste much. Additionally, I always thought lemon oil didn’t last long. I had went to buy more a few times and it’s always sold out. My luthier even uses it. I knew it was jojoba oil based, but pure jojoba is liquid.
After some research I found a woodworking article talking about using jojoba and beeswax on raw rosewood and ebony as a natural conditioner. I have to note that many people frown upon using wax on a fretboard, but it not really a wax in a tradition sense like most petroleum based wax’s. I found other articles referencing 4:1 mixture of jojoba to beeswax. I have it a try and was was pretty spot on to what I was using with the exception of me using natural, unleash oil and was.
The result is an initial texture of lip balm but get soft as you rub your fingers on it making it super easy to apply by hand. There’s absolutely no residue afterwards and makes the board look darker. I’d several test spots and after a few days, it retains the depth much better than lemon oil. I also think using the unbleached ingredients does result in a slightly deeper and darker result.
Left is a new neck and right is 24 hours after the wipe down.
and now @ almost 30 guitars,
After some research I found a woodworking article talking about using jojoba and beeswax on raw rosewood and ebony as a natural conditioner. I have to note that many people frown upon using wax on a fretboard, but it not really a wax in a tradition sense like most petroleum based wax’s. I found other articles referencing 4:1 mixture of jojoba to beeswax. I have it a try and was was pretty spot on to what I was using with the exception of me using natural, unleash oil and was.
The result is an initial texture of lip balm but get soft as you rub your fingers on it making it super easy to apply by hand. There’s absolutely no residue afterwards and makes the board look darker. I’d several test spots and after a few days, it retains the depth much better than lemon oil. I also think using the unbleached ingredients does result in a slightly deeper and darker result.
Left is a new neck and right is 24 hours after the wipe down.
and now @ almost 30 guitars,
