Using Beeswax for Making Candles
Learning to use beeswax for making candles is very simple, and the candles are naturally beautiful. Although beeswax is a bit more expensive than other types of wax, it is a favorite among candle makers. These candles burn slowly and emit very little smoke, hence their reputation for being the “clean, eco-friendly” candle. The natural color of the wax doesn’t need dyes, although the sheets can be purchased in various colors. Most candle lovers prefer to enjoy the natural scent of the honey rather than add scented oils to the wax, but scents can be added if you like.
The wax is available in sheets, blocks, or pellets. The sheets typically measure 8¼” x 16¾”, and can be found in the natural state (no color added), bleached white, or in various colors. The sheets are easy to work with and don’t require melting to make a beautiful pillar candle. The blocks and pellets must be melted in the same fashion as soy or paraffin. You can find beeswax pellets online at most soap makers’ websites. A square-braided wick should be used when making a pillar candle from beeswax sheets. When pouring melted beeswax into molds or containers, a zinc-core wick is the best choice.
Sheets of beeswax are very easy to work with. Decide how tall you want your candle, and make that the width of the strip of wax you will cut with your craft knife. To get the most from your sheet, try starting out by cutting 3 strips that are 2¾” wide by 16¾” long. Cut a piece of the wick that is 3½” long, and place at the end of one of the strips. One end of the wick should be even with the edge of the wax strip, and the other end should extend ¾” beyond the other edge of the wax strip. Press the wick into the wax, and begin to roll the wax very slowly. The tighter the wax is rolled, the slower the candle will burn. When the first strip is rolled, add the second strip with the seams together, and continue to roll. Add the third strip and continue to roll as tightly as possible. When the last strip is rolled, press the loose edge into the candle with your fingers. Press gently until the seam is closed. Trim the wick to ¼”, and you’re all set! This same process can be followed with different widths of wax, which will create candles of various heights.
Taper candles can be created using melted beeswax and flat wicks. Just cut a length of wick that is twice the desired length of your tapers plus 4”. Holding the wick at the middle point, begin dipping both ends of the wick into the melted beeswax, using a down/up motion. Never leave the wick in the wax for more than 15 seconds. Dip down, then bring out and cool 15 seconds…dip down, then bring out and cool 15 seconds. Gradually, you will see wax building up on the wick. Repeat this process until you have two tapers that are ½” to ¾” in diameter. Hang over a 2” wide board (such as a paint stir stick) that is supported by two blocks or bricks that are tall enough to allow the tapers to hang without touching the ground.
The art of beeswax candle making is very rewarding. Beeswax candles are elegant and long-lasting. Once you get the hang of making beeswax candles, you’ll be hooked!
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