Seems like Kenditioner is beeswax based but also has some coconut oil in it. If I was gonna give it a whirl I'd probably go Beeswax, some essential oils for scent, and maybe even a little linseed oil to protect the wood? I think most of what you'd add to it would be about personal preference. Like if all you wanted to do was darken your dama, you could just rub some olive oil into it...
Have used olive oil before and it didn't change the tone as much as I thought it would, if you're looking to see a big change make sure you use a fresh ken
Fer sure. The oils from your skin will do a similar thing over time. To go really dark you'd need to use a stain or something. Also depending on the wood, oils by themselves (i think) will start to work their way out of the wood. I'll occasionally make cutting boards or wooden spoons as easy gifts for people. I always finish them with some simple olive oil and encourage folks to re-oil them every month or so. I think to really lock it in you'd need to seal the wood somehow but idk any foodsafe seals that aren't nuts expensive.
Definitely... Kenditioner is now up for grabs at www.findyourwingsco.com www.kendamausa.com and www.sweetskendamas.com
coconut oil works just fine. Will darken the ken moderately, helps keep it hydrated, and gives it a nice stank
Decided to try conditioning with Coconut oil, want some dama butter but I decided to try it with just coconut oil. Results are pretty cool! The standout is the spectra mintberry for sure Before After
@cpthangover Merged with this thread since your pics are a good example of Cheech's preferred method too and will be helpful to those looking to do the same. Back on topic: Did you use any special kind of coconut oil like virgin or paste or food grade?
Thanks for the move! I used food grade. Just labeled organic 100% pure coconut oil. I figure whatever is fine providing it's additive free.
I'd be interested to know how it holds up over time. Since it's plant based I'd be a little worried about it spoiling or going rancid but I don't know if it is like olive and other plant based oils that have that problem.
Coconut oil is supposed to be the most predictable and stable of the natural food oils. I’ve utilized it for its many different applications with no problem of spoilage.
Does it get sticky over time or does it soak-in or evaporate enough not to leave a film that deteriorates?
The liquid oil absorbs in, and the residue left behind naturally absorbs into your hands. It honestly just speeds up what you body oils would do from extended play. It feels dry again in a week or two, so I just reapply when needed.
Hi guys! I bought some Beeswax and Orange Oil wood conditioner from the hardware store. Any things I should be aware of when I beeswax my kendamas? I tried beeswaxing a few of my current jammers but I want to get the best possible result for a freshie I just bought (since it's Keyaki). Any suggestions? How many coats, How to dry beeswax, etc. Help would be much appreciated.