Beeswax Candle Making: A Chandlers Guide
Candles are an essential feature in any home, they give a touch of warmth, create a calm and relaxed atmosphere, and fill the home with soothing and luxurious scent. Candles have been around for thousands of years, and although the methods of making candles may have changed over the years, that fundamental connection between us and the flame has remained the same. Although there are many different materials used to make candles, Beeswax candles are some of the most popular, due to their natural beauty, symbolism, and healing properties.
What is Beeswax?
Beeswax is a natural wax that is produced by honey bees. It is composed of over 300 compounds, including long-chain hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and esters, as well as other organic compounds that give it its signature honey-like aroma. Beeswax has been used for centuries in candles, cosmetics, and other products.
Benefits of Business Wax Candles
Beeswax candles are some of the longest burning and most efficient candles that you can buy. They have a long life span, up to 5 times longer than paraffin candles, and they leave a relatively small carbon footprint. They also release negative ions when lit, which helps to purify the air in your home. Additionally, the natural scent of beeswax is far more pleasant than many of the artificially scented paraffin candles that you find on the market.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Making your own beeswax candles is a fun, relaxing activity, and it’s a great way to add a personal touch to your home decor. In order to get started, you’ll need the following items:
- Beeswax
- Wax melting pot
- Candle molds
- Candle wicks
- Scissors or wick clippers
- Paper towels
- Bamboo skewers (optional)
- Heat source
Instructions
- Melt the Beeswax: Start by filling your wax melting pot with cold water and plugging it in. Place the block of beeswax in the melting pot and turn it on. Allow the wax to melt completely. You may need to adjust the temperature as you go. Use a candy thermometer to make sure the wax reaches a temperature of at least 145-155°F.
- Prepare the Candle Molds: Before pouring the melted beeswax, you’ll need to make sure the molds are prepared. Place a wick tab with the wick attached in the base of the mold. Use a bamboo skewer to make sure the wick is centered. Use a clamp or some paperclips to hold the wick in place.
- Pour the Wax: Once the melted wax has reached temperature, you’re ready to pour it into the mold. Use an oven mitt to handle the melting pot and slowly pour the wax into the mold. Keep in mind that the wax may cool quickly, so you’ll want to work quickly.
- Let it Cool: Allow the wax to cool and harden in the molds. This process may take up to 8 hours. You can speed up the cooling process by submerging the molds in a bucket of cold water.
- Remove the Candle: Once the wax has completely cooled and hardened, it’s time to remove the candle from the mold. Hold the mold upside-down and gently tap the base until the candle comes out. Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch with scissors or wick clippers.
Tips
- Be sure to use a thermometer to ensure the wax temperature is correct, and use an oven mitt when handling the melting pot.
- Allow the wax to cool slowly, as too rapid cooling may cause the wax to crack.
- If your candles appear to have a flat top when they’re done cooling, you can fix this by reheating the wax and then pouring a second layer.
Now that you know the basics, it’s time to get creative and start making your own Beeswax candles. Enjoy!
Welcome to my candle making blog! In this blog, I will be sharing my tips and tricks for making candles. I will also be sharing some of my favorite recipes.
