For the American Bee Journal.
Putting Wires into Comb Foundation.
J. G. WHITTEN.
Mr. John F. Cowan, in his article on “The Practical use of Foundation,” published in the Bee Journal of March 9, says: “It has been practically demonstrated to my satisfaction that these results can only be obtained by Mr. Given’s method of introducing the wires, and if by a happy combination the Dunham foundation could be made and wired by the Given or a similar process, the foundation controversy would be virtually ended.”
I would like to say to Mr. Cowan and others who may be interested, that last season I hived about 40 full sized natural colonies, on Dunham foundation, in Quinby frames, prepared in the following manner: The frame is wired by sewing in 2 horizontal wires, spaced off so that there will be 3 equal spaces from the top bar down. I use a triangular top bar and fasten the foundation by pressing it down to the bar with the thumb and then running a stream of melted wax and rosin over it. Then by running a wheel, made of a cent, over the wire I imbed the wire into the foundation; this also forms a groove in the foundation in which I run a stream of melted wax which covers the wire, and when drawn out will be perfect and will neither sag nor break out by extracting. There should be a good half inch of space between the foundation and bottom bar, as it will settle enough to bulge the comb if left full length. To give it a thorough trial I hived 2 heavy natural colonies in one hive with the mercury at 90 in the shade and basswood honey coming in very fast, and when drawn out every comb was perfect. By bending a spoon so that it will pour a small stream and with a little practice, you will find it a short task to fasten the foundation in the frames.
Genoa, N. Y., March 14, 1881.
For the American Bee Journal.