How Are Beeswax Candles Made?

About Beeswax Candles

Beeswax candles were introduced in the 1500s and used mostly by the upper class and Roman Catholic Church. Beeswax candles can be made by the dipping method, in molds, or formed from flat sheets. Beeswax can be purchased at most hobby shops in either solid chunks or in rolled form as well as from local beekeepers.

Clarifying the Beeswax

Beeswax has a high melting temperature between 143°F and 145°F. The impurities in raw beeswax generally weigh more than the wax itself. To clarify raw beeswax, place the wax in hot, but not boiling, water. As the wax melts, impurities fall to the bottom of the vessel, while the wax rises to the top. Ladle off the wax into clean containers and allow it to form back into a solid mass.

Molded Candles

Molds for beeswax candles are made from many different materials--from waxed paper cartons to newly invented silicon. The wick typically is made from rolled cotton thread or synthetic materials with a wire center to keep it straight. Most candle molds purchased by home candle makers will specify the type and size of wick that needs to be used. Once the wick is situated in the mold, melted beeswax is poured into the mold in a steady stream. After 2 to 3 minutes, the candle is topped off with another layer of melted beeswax.

Rolled Candles

Rolled candles are made from softened sheets of beeswax. The wick is laid out against one edge of the beeswax sheet, and the wax is rolled up tightly around the wick to create the candle. Beeswax candle sheets may be smooth in texture or pressed into a honeycomb pattern.

Dipped Candles

Dipped candles are the oldest form of candle making. Deep pans or vessels are filled with beeswax and melted over low heat. The wick, which may or may not be weighted, is then dipped into the wax, removed, and allowed to drip. The process is repeated until the candle has reached its desired circumference in size. Multiple candles often are dipped at the same time, using a dowel or other device to separate the wick and keep the candles the appropriate distance apart.

References

• Candles, Roman, 500 BCE , Smith College
• Beeswax, University of Delaware Extension (PDF)

Resources

• Beeswax Candles