Making Beeswax Candles — A Simple Modern Method

Sep 02, 2009 in Candle Making Tips

Beeswax remains one of the most valued candle making materials. People have treasured its mild aroma and clean burning characteristics for generations. We have a lot more choices today yet beeswax remains the preferred natural alternative to petroleum based paraffin. Here's how to make beeswax candles using a simple and easy to learn method.

Traditionally, people have made beeswax candles by even the dipping method or by using molds. I'm about to teach you a much simpler method that uses sheets of beeswax.

Beeswax sheets for candle making are commonly about 10 x 16" in size. They commonly have a textured pattern imprinted on the surface. A characteristic of beeswax is that it remains flexible at room temperature, which makes it possible to produce a candle without melting the wax and using a mold.

Start by laying a sheet of beeswax on a smooth, flat surface. A clean kitchen counter or table works fine. The height of the candle is determined by the width of the sheet. If you want to make a shorter candle, simply trim the sheet using a straight edge and a sharp knife.

Arrange the sheet so that the edge that will become the center of the candle is toward you. Cut a piece of wick so it is an inch or so longer than the candle height. Gently press the wick into the edge of the wax, leaving a little bit extending beyond each end.

The next step is to roll the wax around the wick forming the candle. Use a firm but gentle pressure and take care to press evenly along the length of the candle. If you press too hard you risk distorting the candle.

In cold weather, the wax may be a little stiff. If this happens, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting to warm the wax. Be careful as you do this - too much heat will ruin the candle.

When you reach the end of the sheet, gently press the edge of the wax into the body of the candle to make a smooth seam. If you'd like a thicker candle, such as a pillar, continue rolling with another sheet of wax.

After you've gained experience making this type of candle, you'll definitely should look into some of the more traditional ways of making beeswax candles. You can find full instructions in these methods, including tips for success, at: How to Make Beeswax Candles
Of course, beeswax is not the only material you can use to make candles. You can find out about other possible choices at: Candle Making Wax.

You can further explore the wonderful craft of candle making is:
http://www.CandleMakingConnection.com/

Now that you know how to make beeswax candles I hope you'll consider learning other candle making techniques as well.