Wire Your Own BeeHive Frames for Bettercomb or wax foundation, complete Unassembled kit by betterbee

In this video, I share about the frame wiring kit that is compatible with bettercomb, or waxed foundation, complete with a wire embedding device.
BetterBee is currently out of the pre-wired frames, so I had to do something else.
I paid full price for everything shown in this video, no kick-backs, no incentives.
It's understandable that there is STRONG PUSH-BACK against anything but pure, real, beeswax inside a hive. Late season swarms are considered "doomed" simply because there isn't time for them to draw new comb due to dwindling resources and cooler temps. (bees need 87 deg. f and warmer to construct new comb) - I have been testing and evaluating this BetterComb aka Hexacell beginning in late 2018 - early 2019. I started five September swarm captures in 2019 with 4 frames of BetterComb in each deep (min). All made it through the winter of 2019/2020. The benefits are clear.
I'm sharing what I do and how I do it. Not trying to steer anyone in this direction and am not discounting the value of real bees wax.
PROPERTIES of BetterComb/Hexacell:
- Average comb thickness: 24.5 mm
- Average cell wall thickness: 0.15 - 0.2 mm
- Cell wall inclination angle: 7° / comb side
- Average cell size: 5.35 - 5.4 mm
- Average comb weight: 0.2 g/cm2
Some are angry about the "foreign material" in the hive, understandable, so here is the composition of Bettercomb/Hexacell for those interested:
These combs are not made of plastic.
The components are the same main material groups that are in natural beeswax.
They are the following:
Fatty acid monoesters, diesters and triesters
Hydrocarbons
Hydroxyesters
Fatty alcohols
Fatty acids
**I am not compensated for reviewing/evaluating BetterComb/Hexacells**
YES, it can be put in an extractor, though my main purpose, as mentioned before, is just to kick-start swarms or package installs.
The manufacturer met the ISO 22000 quality standard, their business activities were approved by the HACCP's requirements and also met the American Food and Drug Administration's requirements.
Still Suspicious? Don't use them :)
You can also use the wired frames for embedding pure bees wax foundation:
www.betterbee.com/foundation/...
Here are links for your convenience:
Complete kit with 10 frames and bettercomb: www.betterbee.com/frames/bcom...
Titebond II strong wood glue: amzn.to/3585j9J
Wire tensioner/crimper: www.betterbee.com/beekeeping-...
Quick Grip Clamp Set: amzn.to/2Zcmgw6
Needle Nose Pliers with wire cutting: amzn.to/32UXcKU
Finish Hammer just like my Great Grandfather's: amzn.to/327mdDP
Portable power pack for your embedding device and OAV Irons: amzn.to/32UXzoM
As an amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Thank you for watching!

[@donbearden1953]

That’s so cool how the wire melts it’s way into the wax and doesn’t damage it! Thanks Fred.

[@FrederickDunn]

You're welcome Don, always great to see your comments :)

[@reefermaker]

I've found another unorthodox method is to use cheap and cheerful 10lb fishing line. If you thread it into an 'X' shape front and back and pull the line tight as you go. Just nail and knot both ends of the line it seems to hold the wax in place without damaging it. It is an easy way of getting the line out when you are removing it.

[@shaunroberts9361]

You didnt mess around with this video. Holy smokes.

[@rodneymiddleton9624]

Thanks Fred. I ordered the kit to stay ahead of my bees. They don't care if I'm not prepared. Great information. The aggressive bees we coming from a nuc that had become queenless. Again Thanks.

[@FrederickDunn]

Ahhhh queenless aggression..... very telling. Thanks for the update Rodney! :)

[@scottfortune9016]

Very cool! I like that they give you the wiring bracket so it's easier to get that aligned and heated. I was thinking it was going to be so much more difficult to get that wore embedded. But that bracket sure does the trick.

[@ic3e]

Everything you do is very thorough and is of such high quality Mr. Dunn. I admire your attention to detail and Im going to strive to replicate your approach to your craft in my life.

[@FrederickDunn]

Thank you.

[@phillipriggs3375]

Well Done and I can see using these frames, wires and embedding tool for building frames from tear out comb. Many like 50+ years ago we could only afford wireless foundation and had to use same methods.

[@FrederickDunn]

That's a great idea, using it to bond real bees wax. I think I'll mention that to others as something to try. Thank you for sharing.

[@phillipriggs3375]

@@FrederickDunn and your question answer video's are almost as good as your Sounds and Healing Sounds for insomnia, NO Offense!

[@sonofthunder.]

put ten together tonite, my battery charger may need turned up ,as it seemed slow to melt,but did work,learned about the taper and chevron ,cant wait to use next season,i had to come up with my own eyelet punch,and the wire crimper needed me to help it roll,by using my other fingers,hope your doing good

[@katj7641]

Thank you! I did my first better comb frame today (with the kit) and your video was super helpful!

[@FrederickDunn]

Glad it helped!

[@advocacyrl8017]

Great video! We were given two full size frames early last year. One was clean and bees moved in on their own. The second needs thoroughly cleaned out, due to comb mold and moss. I reached out to Betterbee earlier today and since I've seen this video, I'd rather just get the frame kits and start with new, clean frames instead of trying to rewire the old ones. Starting with new clean ones may be more work, however, any bees that will eventually move in will have a much higher chance of success since they won't have to worry about any contaminates of any kind.

[@wendygrant2735]

Very interesting. Don't get discouraged. If this is a way to help fall-swarms survive the winter, then I'm enthousiast.

[@longarmsupplies]

Thanks so much for the video. I bought an antique extractor and the guy gave me a box of beeswax wired foundation and now I know exactly how to wire them into the frames. I'm doing research on my antique extractor as it's galvanized and some are telling me not to use it.

[@FrederickDunn]

Many years ago someone gave me a zinc coated extractor... I handed it right back :) I much prefer the stainless drums and I thin you will also. Zinc has a tendency to oxidize.

[@longarmsupplies]

@@FrederickDunn Ya I'm looking for stainless steel replacement for the "barrel" . the other stuff is great, might just have to replace the frame holders. Wish I could send you a pic of it.

[@omarualpacafarm]

Perfect timing thank you Fred. Great video as usual. We can’t get this great product here in Australia but I will need to have some frames wired with some sort of foundation for my medium super for at least some of the frames and this is a terrific demonstration. I’m sure there are a few videos out there but this just popped into my feed at the right moment. I had just ordered the supplies from a local beekeeper. Pity we can’t get bettercomb here.

[@hexacellshexacells6093]

Dear Sir, you can find it here : www.beekeepinggear.com.au/collections/frames-foundations/products/fully-drawn-honey-comb-super-frames

[@LarryLeesBees]

Thanks Fred!!! I have everything in the kit except the wire. I’ve been piecemealing everything. Ordered a hundred frames and a half pound of eyelets. Then ordered the cool electric embedder (I actually ordered this bad lad when you first showed it off!) and then ordered 50 of the bettercomb. All those orders and forgot the wire... Probably just run to ace and pick a spool up! That wire crimper has s pretty cool though... Well, guess I’ll put another order together! LoL!!! Thanks for the great tutorial Sir! Appreciate all you do! 🐝😎

[@FrederickDunn]

HI Larry! Always great to see your comments. The wire is extremely thin and pulls through the eyelits very easy. I'm glad you're all set.. as you already know 2 is 1 and 1 is none ;) It's good go have backups in bee equipment. I hope you are having a great weekend!

[@marinediva92130]

Thank you this is a much needed video that I can refer to over and over. Well Dunn 😊 !!! I just got the hive butler as well I think it will be a great asset to the bee yard.....

[@FrederickDunn]

Yes, I have a stack of hive butlers and they are very VERY handy :)

[@LarryLeesBees]

Tatiana Tonekaboni - I just got the hive butler as well!!! I got the uncapping tank setup and two additional totes! Excited to see how well they work! 🐝😎

[@madddog7]

I really do like the BC. Lot more fun and esthetically pleasing than plastic foundation.

[@thenotsurechannel7630]

fortunately enough, BetterBee had the pre-wired frames in stock when I ordered them. However for some reason, this is the second time I ordered comb from them, and didn't get the cardboard shim with the comb... had to "eye ball" the depth manually.

[@FrederickDunn]

I just glued some cardboard pieces together for the shim. Maybe it's part of the kit?

[@alexbiggs8131]

Great video. If you have time, you might add a few seconds explaining the electrical connection between the board and the frame, when you push the frame up to the board. The big take away is that this is a lot easier than imagined. The vendors should be paying you for the instruction video. This goes a long way into selling their product. As always you add KEY considerations like labeling the frames.

[@namentatic4978]

I drill some holes around the frame, and reinforce the BC with the tooth picks. If did not do it. it looks to loose to me. Good video.

[@lorrainelietz4384]

Thank You! I have been wanting to do this but thought -- Omg.. -- But I think I can do it!!

[@BeesBikinis]

You should get a kickback. Thanks for sharing!!

[@FrederickDunn]

They offered samples, but I like to purchase what I evaluate so that I am free to criticize as well as endorse the products.

[@Huntnlady7]

@@FrederickDunn Thanks, Fred. Your honesty shines through and we appreciate that

[@downunderfulla6001]

Awesome thanks Fred 👍👍

[@Huntnlady7]

Excellent video, Fred. I cannot tell you how much I loathe wired frames... however I am getting low on predrawn comb, and in consideration of the coming spring, I'm thinking that I should order some now. I "inherited" some frames with beeswax comb and vertical wires in them. During our great "melt-out", (five days over 110 degrees F) comb built on that foundation and foundationless comb were the first to go.

[@FrederickDunn]

Wow... I'm glad not to have experienced a melt-out like that. 110 is soo challenging on many fronts. Until now, I've never been a fan of wired frames either, but the bettercomb needs that support, so here I go....

[@kamonreynolds]

Great video Fred.

[@FrederickDunn]

Thank you Kamon! I have no idea how you find the time to watch other videos, but glad you stopped by! :)

[@kamonreynolds]

@@FrederickDunn I don't know how either LOL I don't waste my time on poor videos I can tell you that. I heard this was a good video on the better comb from a sub of yours and mine and he was right top notch.

[@jpthedelawarebeeman6239]

I was one click away from buying the kit but decided against it. I may get some within the next week maybe. Thanks for the how to Fred. I have tried a few frames of Permacomb and it works but it took the bees a long time to fill it. If you had a coupon code for BetterBee I may get it sooner than later Fred.

[@LaHortetadeBussy]

Thanks men

[@RaySarasin]

Once you spin them in a exectrick spinner the first lesson you learn is the frame must be as strong as possible. With the wire added it is my 2 cents worth as i have spun many frames now

[@sonofthunder.]

rewatched this,they sent you a bit better crimper, and your charger heated the wire much quicker, i suppose i could use the embedder on other wax foundation into wired frames,thanks Fred

[@FrederickDunn]

I used to use that charger for OAV... it's pretty strong. As for the crimper, I'm surprised there was another design?

[@sonofthunder.]

@@FrederickDunn same basic design,mines yellow, and the rollers have press on washers ,rather than e clips, i put a drop of oil but the roller axles are plastic, i think your red one has steel,axles,anyhow, adapt n overcome, seems like a good product, when you dont have extra drawn comb, next time ill compress the frames,as i tighten the wedge nail, so i wont crimp as much as i did,maybe a bar clamp,then let it spring back tight..

[@Misssssysparkles]

Thanks for sharing Hope u had a happy fathers day (in australia lol lol lol ) I would like to know how thick comb ? How does it stand up to spinning ? can i ask why choose thjs synthetic combs over bees wax ?

[@FrederickDunn]

Just for starting swarms, or packages... It's not what I use going forward after a hive is established. Bees Wax is better, but late in the year they can't do much of that when it's colder and takes most of their carbohydrate resources to make.

[@ronfults3844]

I thought it was sort of fun embedding the wire into my BetterComb. I was a little disappointed when I ran out of comb.

[@FrederickDunn]

I'm glad their stocks are refreshed, they were out for quite a while there. I think I'm set for the spring :)

[@marksipes7919]

Perfect timing, I have a kit waiting for me at home. Also, do you have a link for the Hive Butler?

[@FrederickDunn]

The hive butler is on their website... use code FRED10 for a discount on that.. I have a video coming up about the hive butler and its uses :) I asked them if they would provide a discount code for my viewers and they did :)

[@LarryLeesBees]

Dang Fred! Had I known you had a discount code, I’d have used it! Oh well next order of totes I’ll definitely use your code! Thanks for asking if they’d give you one! That’s awesome!!!

[@xiaohuangdi]

Thank you..

[@FrederickDunn]

You're welcome

[@xiaohuangdi]

@@FrederickDunn how long have you been in the world of beekeeping ?

[@xiaohuangdi]

@@FrederickDunn your journey in the world of beekeeping is extraordinary 👍🏻👍🏻💐

[@nikigores8774]

Wow, the benefits of the ready made comb are beyond measure and I am more than ready to make an investment. However, Ross Conrad did raise some concerns in the September 2020 issue (pages 66 & 67) of the Bee Culture Magazine. Wondering what your feelings/thoughts are about them? Thanks for a super great video!

[@FrederickDunn]

I like Ross Conrad a lot, but I'm sorry to say that he mispoke, in my opinion, when he stated "the bees only use bettercomb when they have no other choice". My direct experience and observations tell a completely different story. I found his article one sided. And that's too bad as I have loads of respect for him :)

[@nikigores8774]

Thanks Fred, your point well taken...would you like to comment on Conrad's other concern--wax integrity?

[@craigbrummer2048]

What is the actual name of the rolling crimper you use in the video? Where did you buy it, I can’t find one anywhere? Thanks. Excellent video.

[@FrederickDunn]

www.betterbee.com/beekeeping-tools/crimper2.asp This one comes with the kit. but you can also get it seprarately.

[@jeremytillman500]

Just caught a swarm right at dark from one of my huge hives. Decent size swarm I shook them in a nuc box with a frame of drawn comb. Went back out at dark was gonna move the box and there are what looks like all o them are on outside of box. What can I do?

[@FrederickDunn]

I know I didn't respond to your question, but what did you end up doing and how did it work out for you?

[@thegr8stm8]

Gr8, m8!

[@kathyhathaway8823]

Just a question using the better comb . How good does it do when cutting your caps . How close are you cutting etc

[@FrederickDunn]

Uncapping is the same as with any other bees wax. The bees tend to amend these with their own wax, so if you are using an uncapping fork, you're not disrupting the bettercomb. You can also space frames out a little more which causes the bees to draw out deeper cells for honey storage and you'll be farther from the better comb if that's of any help?

[@BombastusParacelsus]

The wire at the hive entrance confuses the arriving forgers, it should be bent the opposite way.

[@rab2020]

I have it in 2 of my hives (based on your recommendation). One without issue but one of my queens will not cross over the bettercomb so it divided my hive into two mini hives, one side acted like it was queen less. I left it for almost a month and she never crossed it. Have you had any similar issues?

[@FrederickDunn]

HI Randy... I've not encountered that yet... will be going an evaluation of the Long Lang this week and will see if that's a problem at all. I have foundationless and bettercomb in that hive.

[@rab2020]

Frederick Dunn thanks. I’ll be watching.

[@alphaxanon]

How do you dispose of it when it's time to remove the BetterComb from the hive boxes due to age or damage? Throw it in the trash? Make candles out of it? Will wax moth larvae eat it? Can you compost it? Is it as hydrophilic as natural beeswax, and so become contaminated with toxins as it ages?

[@FrederickDunn]

You can melt them down for candles just like bees wax.

[@houstonsheltonbees814]

👍

[@zoobee4824]

I bought the kit and its super easy but I found the artificial comb the bees wouldnt use for brood and didn't really take to it even for honey stores. Any tips for getting bees to accept it? Love the kit, makes wax foundation frames dead easy.

[@FrederickDunn]

Hmmm that's interesting. I have it in several hives and they use it readily. You "could" inspire them to work it a little by spraying sugar syrup into the cells before placing it in the hive. I've not done that, but they would leave the cells smelling like bees. I've also found that if you don't embed the wire well into that bottom wax layer, they tend to avoid the wires.

[@FrederickDunn]

I just added this to today's discussion :)

[@zoobee4824]

@@FrederickDunn Thank You for confiming the spray, I thought about doing that so will with the rest of my comb . Maybee some honeyBee healthy in the sugar spray

[@davekeith7504]

Beetle trap ,is it possible to make a drawer in the hive ,so it can be emptied from opening out .Then re bated . So bee's can chase beetles in ,but cannot get in themselves .A small tube or the like.

[@FrederickDunn]

Hi Dave, I like the beetle jails that you place in your top box, easy to access just under the inner cover. I don't think I'd modify a hive just for that purpose. BUT, I don't have much of a beetle problem, so am not speaking from much experience there.

[@davekeith7504]

@@FrederickDunn Hello Mr Dunn,I don't have Bee's but always been friends.I observe through watching programs like yours , that the bee's will try to keep the Beatles corralled in a corner or space away from the crown jewels . Usually bottom of the hive !! .It would be interesting to see a purpose made hive tested out . Possibly put into production once the creases have been ironed out.You seem to have a workshop and studious mind .🤔

[@omarualpacafarm]

This sounds a bit like the little tray system in the base of the Flow 2 hive? Fred would you agree?

[@pauldusa]

how many frames included in the $150 kit ? I would clean off the running exposed glue off the joints

[@FrederickDunn]

You have to check the listing, I don't remember all that is included and the components may change.

[@djmoulton1558]

You mention that it is also possible to use this method for building frames with wax foundation. What is available in this regard and where would I go to find out more? Thx.

[@FrederickDunn]

Yes, you just purchase bees wax foundation and embed the wires with heat and the bees draw out the cells. www.betterbee.com/foundation/ubf10-unwired-brood-foun-10pk.asp

[@djmoulton1558]

@@FrederickDunn Okay, understood. Thx very much.

[@jimhughes4765]

Is the hive tote something you designed or is it available from a supplier?

[@FrederickDunn]

Look for Hive Butler and if you buy one use code FRED10 and receive 10% off, I'm doing a video on them soon

[@iamchillydogg]

I have a feeling the people who have a problem with Bettercomb are the same ones who complained about the Flowhive.

[@jaksmith6465]

what is your favorite style of hive tool ?

[@FrederickDunn]

It varies, but the Kent Williams Hive tool is high on my list.

[@patriciazarate1405]

What size are the termination nails?

[@FrederickDunn]

3/4 " works fine.

[@katmanclancy]

Was that an original eastwing hammer Fred?

[@FrederickDunn]

I'm not sure? It's from 1955 :) and I got it in 65 when my great grand father passed :)

[@gabrielmeliponicultorhorta6952]

Essas abelhas são apis melliferas?

[@FrederickDunn]

.

[@johnmenocal1633]

Where did you get the tote?

[@FrederickDunn]

Hive Butler... if you go to their website, the Code Fred10 will get you 10% off :)

[@researcherAmateur]

Better then what ?? Real comb.? Nice name. I'm whayting for Better bees.. hope they will run on solar power

[@FrederickDunn]

I see what you did there. I do like your channel name :)

[@davekeith7504]

Have you noticed any different behaviour of the bee's , during the solar blast .Is anyone collecting info of the like.

[@researcherAmateur]

@@FrederickDunn With all this new beekeepers l understand the need for sombade who will try all those new products. It's the number of new products thet l don't like. Wood, wax and propolis is the only eqvipment they really need

[@RedMoonsEcho]

I wouldn’t doubt that there are some idiots out there who will try to sell bettercomb as chunk honey. There was one honey I bought off Amazon I for a fact weren’t real wax. It may be easy to start a business today but it don’t mean people are honest.

[@FrederickDunn]

When you cut through BetterComb... the foundation is conspicuously thick. I profoundly dislike fakery.... :(

[@ironlion805]

So is that comb already drawn out??

[@ronfults3844]

Yes it is predrawn synthetic bees wax ready for immediate use by the bees.

[@FrederickDunn]

Yes, that's why the bees were able to have their queen begin laying right away and a five day old swarm install is in production (eggs and larvae) this late in the season.

[@ironlion805]

Frederick Dunn that is cool! Thanks

[@bradgoliphant]

Hello again Frederick. Its Brad Oliphant again. I have a favor to ask. I'm looking for someone to hire, to make 10 modified Layen Frames at 19" wide x 15.5" long to fit in a modified Langstroth box. I don't own a shop, and these are modified so I can't buy them. I'm happy to pay for EVERYTHING. I thought I would at least ask. Whatever you answer I'm find. Just asking for help. Thank you

[@FrederickDunn]

I don't have the time Brad, but maybe someone will see your post here? You never know!

[@followme8238]

That might have been your grandfather’s finishing hammer, but it’s not a finishing hammer 😂

[@FrederickDunn]

I think it fits the finish hammer category... here's a description from This Old House: "As you might expect with something this old, there are many variations on the claw hammer, but they all fall into one of two groups: finish or framing. Most homeowners can get along quite well with a trusty finish hammer, distinguished by its smooth face, light head (less than 20 ounces), short handle (less than 16 inches), and curved claw for easy nail removal." Yep, that's it. :)

[@followme8238]

@@FrederickDunn ok, I believe you - it looks bigger in the vid

[@gary5172]

Out of Stock @ Betterbee

[@FrederickDunn]

What??? The kit is????

[@muddymtnbiker]

It is back in stock now.

[@halleyvolo5868]

Out of stock 🤨

[@FrederickDunn]

I wrote to them and asked when they will refresh those resources.. thank you for letting me know!