In order to evaluate the surface strength or to measure the resistance to lifting of the upper paper layer, the quick and easy test with the Dennison wax sticks (Waxes) has been developed. This test can be used for both coated and uncoated papers. This series of wax sticks have graduated adhesive properties, ranging from very light to the strongest adhesive property.

Using the alcohol lamp, the particular wax crayon is melted softly and pressed through the drawing wood onto the paper or cardboard sample. After the wax has cooled, the pencil is pulled off the paper in the Z direction with one hand. The other hand is used to hold the drawing pin on the surface to be tested. Picking occurs when the specimen has fractures or parts of the surface adhere to the wax pencil. The number of the wax pencil which does not cause any defects on the surface or to which pencil no particles of the surface adhere is registered here.