[mlanden]

So, I guess you figured out pretty quick that new comb not on foundation is VERY soft. How warm was it when you tried to cut it out. This is a case where colder is better. I doubt you had much of a chance for success no matter what steps you may have taken. Key points are to get them in a hive as best as you can and never set a bait hive with missing frames. Been down that road and got hit by that bus too.

:bus

Thx, JW; I was thinking that this comb was softer and had less structural integrity than any other comb I've handled (I've successfully attached comb to frames, but not "fresh" comb). Yeah, in future, I'll just have to make sure I have the frames -- one way or the other -- to do the bait boxes. The burned, waxy hand is the best teacher.

And it was a warm day -- in the mid-70's ....

Mitch

 

[mlanden]

What you need to do is prepare what I call "string frames."Get some light string like kite string or even fishing line.Lay a frame flat on a hard surface and staple the string end on the top bar upper corner,then at a slight angle down to the bottom bar. Repeat. Work your way in a zig zag pattern across the frame. Flipped over,this gives you a grid to lay the comb on.You can then repeat on the other side or use rubber bands.I use another frame as a template to cut the comb to the proper height.

Hmmmm .. interesting idea. Maybe I could've rescued the situation had I done this prior to the disaster. I'd not entertained the possibility that there'd be brood comb to be excised in the bait box. "If you fail to plan .....". I think I'll make one of these and keep aside, in the off-chance I let this (unwanted comb drawing) happen again. Much obliged.