I always apply a bit of paraffin wax to a plane sole before planing, 
then rub the plane back & forth a couple of times on a piece of sheepskin.
In his sharpening book and planing video, Jim Kingshot inisists "the 
informed' use an oil wick, a shallow wooden box he keeps on his bench 
with a large cloth wick in it, which he charges with linseed, swiping 
the plane across it before using. But he doesn't explain his preference. 
Does anyone have any comments or preferences in this regard? Please explain.

Don