Expert: Jamie Yocono - 4/20/2005

Question
Hi,
I bought an unfinished pine storage bed and it's draws are very difficult to open and close. I understand candle was is supposed to help but  haven't got the slightest on how to apply it?

Thanks a bunch!

Answer
Hi Ralf,

I assume by candles helping you out with your drawer problem, you mean that they're sticking. I am just guessing here, but I assume your drawers don't have metal drawer glides, but rather- they are simply wood runners. With those, you have a situation where wood is rubbing, wood on wood. In areas of higher humidity, wood can swell and make this combination a "sticky" one.

Candles will help somewhat- so will paste wax, and I personally think wax is a little easier to apply. That said- you need to determine where the wood is rubbing on wood. Rub the candles (or wax) on those areas, and they will glide a little more easily against each other. If you can do it without it showing too much, I would try to rub on a nice thick coat. Try to apply it on both sides- the cabinet side and the drawer side, if possible.

Good luck, I hope this helps. Feel free to write back with any other questions you might have after reading this.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
www.wooditis.com
Las Vegas, NV