Candle making just doesn’t get any easier than this arts and crafts project – rolled beeswax candles. This is the first rolled beeswax candle I ever made. In the past, I always made candles using pots of molten wax. In this article, I present how to make homemade beeswax candles.
I am delighted to have discovered this quick and easy option and even more delighted to share it with you. I love the attractive honeycomb texture of the beeswax.
Of course, you can use beeswax sheets to make much fancier candles than the ones shown here. But this page will show you the basics to get you started on your creative way.
The candles pictured above are traditional beeswax pillar candles. To make them, basically, all you do is roll a sheet of beeswax around a wick! Let’s jump in!
How to Make Homemade Beeswax Candles – What You Need To Know
Here are the details on how to make this homemade candle. (Thanks to coworker Mike for serving as my hand model.)
Materials
- The sheet I used measured 8 x 16 inches (20 cm x 40 cm).
- Beeswax sheets come in assorted colors, including natural.
- Wicking often is sold in spools. There are several types of wicking. For pillar beeswax candles made from beeswax sheets, use the “square braided” kind.
- The length depends on the size of the beeswax sheet you use. To begin, cut a piece of wicking about one inch longer than the height of the candle will be. (You will later trim the wick a bit.)
Instructions
Lay the beeswax sheet on a flat surface as shown in the photo. I placed mine on a big sheet of brown wrapping paper.
The wax sheet should be at room temperature. See this craft tip for more information.
You will need a small bit of wax later to “prime” the wick. Cut off a thin strip from the end of the beeswax sheet to use for that purpose.
Place the wick (unprimed) along the edge of the beeswax sheet, as shown in the first photo below. Roll the wax around the wick until the wick is completely covered, as shown in the photo below.
- The wick needs to be flush against the bottom of the finished candle. If you want to, before you start rolling you can have the wick extend a little beyond the edge of the sheet that will be the bottom of the candle, then snip it off later when the candle is completed.
- To ensure proper burning of the candle, press the wax firmly into the wick for the first roll around.
Continue rolling the candle. As you roll, take care to keep the edges level. After you have rolled the entire sheet, press the edge smoothly to the candle so it does not unravel.
To prime the wick, wrap bits of beeswax around it and press it in. Another way to prime the wick is to melt a small amount of the wax and dip the wick into it.
Before you light the candle, cut the wick to 5/8 inch (1.5 cm), as shown in the photo below.
We’re all done now.
How to Make Homemade Beeswax Candles FAQs
Q: Can I use a microwave to melt the beeswax?
A: Yes, you can use a microwave, but ensure you use short intervals and stir frequently to prevent overheating.
Q: Are beeswax candles better for the environment?
A: Absolutely! Beeswax candles are eco-friendly, as they are natural and produce minimal soot when burned.
Q: How do I prevent air bubbles in my candles?
A: To avoid air bubbles, pour the wax slowly and tap the mold gently on a surface to release the trapped air.
Q: Can I mix different essential oils for a unique fragrance?
A: Yes, you can create custom fragrances by blending different essential oils. Just ensure to research the compatibility of oils beforehand.
Q: Are beeswax candles safe for those with allergies?
A: Beeswax candles are generally well-tolerated by individuals with allergies, as they don’t release harmful chemicals or strong scents.
Q: How long do beeswax candles burn?
A: Beeswax candles tend to burn longer than paraffin candles. On average, they can burn for around 50-80 hours, depending on the size.
How to Make Homemade Beeswax Candles: Summary
Crafting homemade beeswax candles is a delightful journey that combines creativity and sustainability. As you master the art of candle making, you’ll find yourself captivated by the soothing glow and enchanting fragrances of your creations. With just a few simple steps, you can transform pure beeswax into exquisite candles that illuminate your space and warm your heart.