Making Bees-Wax Candles
All you need are sheets of beeswax and wicks. You can purchase these at craft stores, bee keeping supply companies or from an online source. To find an online source simply search the words, “candle making”, “wax sheets”, or “beeswax sheets.”
The honeycomb wax is a neat little added flair to the tapers. But, you can use smooth as well, either one works great. They are available in a wide range of colors. The cost for an 8″ x 16″ sheet will run you about two dollars.
Determine the size of the wick to purchase by the diameter of the candles you plan to make. Most sources will have a chart of recommendations to help you pick out the right wick. Wicks come in flat braid or square braid. For the most flexibility, you may want to purchase a range of wick sizes.
Buy enough wax and wick that you will be able to do a few test runs.
To get started warm the wax in the sun until it softens a bit or you can heat it by placing it on a towel lined cookie sheet in a 250 degree oven. It just takes a couple of minutes for the wax to soften and become pliable.
Determine the height of the candle you want and cut the sheet accordingly. Next cut a piece of wick about 1/2 inches longer than the height of your candle. Place the wick 1/8 of an inch from the edge of the wax sheet and press firmly so that it is well sealed. Now gently roll the sheet tightly, making sure the ends are even. When you have created the diameter desired, use a utility knife to trim any excess and a warm metal spatula to seal the edge. Trim the wick down to about 1/2 inch on top.
To increase the diameter of the candle, simply roll the first sheet with the wick in it with a new sheet lining up the edge of the new sheet with the unsealed outer edge of the candle and begin to roll again. Continue these steps until you have the diameter you prefer.
It’s amazing how popular candles have become, particularly around the holiday season, and to think, the essentail ingredient here is from out friend the honeybee.
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