Starter strips

Attach narrow strips of beeswax foundation (1–2 cm wide) along the top bar of each foundationless frame to give bees a clear starting line for comb construction. Bees naturally extend comb downward from wax they detect above them, so a properly aligned strip encourages straight, parallel comb within the frame.

Why It Works

Bees prefer to build from existing wax. A starter strip provides an anchor point oriented along the top bar, directing comb straight down rather than at random angles. Without this guide, bees often attach comb diagonally or bridge between adjacent frames.

Tips

• Use pure beeswax strips cut from foundation sheets for strongest bee acceptance
• Secure strips into a kerf (groove) cut along the top bar, or bond them with melted beeswax
• Run strips the full length of the top bar for consistent guidance
• Combine with hive leveling for best results