by contributing writer Jasmine
I embarked on learning how to make beeswax candles after searching for an alternative to heavily scented commercial candles which would often leave me with a headache. From my research I found that beeswax candles are one of the cleanest burning candles, and they actually clean the air as they burn. I enjoy the sweet honey smell and the soft golden light. These candles seem to take me back in time to a simple life.
Supplies Needed
- Beeswax – enough to fill your container 1 1/2 – 2 times. For my large pot, I used approximately 4 pounds to fill it, but as I made the candles I added in more beeswax to keep the level near the top of the pot.
- Wicking – I found a roll of wicking on the clearance table at the craft store, so check for discounted supplies.
- Metal Nuts – small ones from the hardware store
- Container – I bought a candle making pot at the craft store, but metal coffee cans or olive oil cans would also work. Make sure the height of the can is taller than you want your candles to be.
Instructions
1. Fill container with beeswax. Place container in a pan of water and heat until beeswax is melted.
2. Prepare wicking by cutting pieces 2 1/2 times as long as you want your candles. My candles were about 8 inches long, so my wicking was approximately 20 inches long. Tie nuts onto both ends the wicking (to weigh down the wicking once you dip it into the beeswax).
3. I made a makeshift contraption to hold my candles while they were drying. I used a bar stool and a yard stick, but a broom handle would also work. It doesn’t have to look pretty.
4. Take the wicking and hold at the top, making sure to keep the 2 sides separated. Slowly dip the wicking into the beeswax. Hang to dry and repeat on the next wicking. Continue dipping until all of the wickings have been dipped. Return to the first wicking and repeat the process again. Be patient, this is a slow process, especially in the beginning. It will take a while to build up the wax on the wicking. Continue the process until the candles are the size that you would like.
Note: The wax tends to build up on the nuts. Just remove and toss back into the pot. Also, as the level of wax in the pot decreases, add more in and wait for it to melt.
5. When candles are the size that you would like them to be, cut off the nuts from the bottom of the candle and flatten the candle bottom with your palm. If the wax has already hardened, quickly dip the bottom of the candle into the melted wax in the pot. This will soften the end and allow you to flatten it.
6. When ready to use, cut the candles apart and pull off any excess wax at the top of the wick. Light and use as a regular candle.
If you want to start out small, try making birthday candles. We made some for our 2 year old and he was so pleased with his very own candles!
More fun DIY projects:
Jackie @ Blessings Overflowing says
What a fun project. I love you “contraption” to hold the candles. 🙂
Jasmine @ Ponder the Path says
Thank you Jackie! My girls have become a little addicted to making candles. It has been lots of fun.