How Do I Use Paraffin?

Paraffin wax is usable for many different things besides candles.

You can use paraffin in many different ways. It is a wax that people use for candles, muscle relaxers and fire starters. It is available in small or large bags or blocks at most craft stores or home improvement stores. You must typically melt it before you can use it to make another items. Melt it in a double boiler on the stove over a low heat. This will ensure that it melts fully without burning. Because it gets very hot, you must be very careful when handling or working around the wax.

Things You'll Need

• Paraffin wax
• Paper egg carton
• Cupcake papers
• Sawdust
• Cotton balls
• Fragrant essential oil
• Plastic bags
• Small tub or bucket
• Lotion

Instructions

Homemade Wax Treatments

1. Melt the wax in a double boiler on the stove. Add the oil.

2. Clean and dry your hands or feet, whichever you are planning to dip into the wax. Take off any jewelry.

3. Spread moisturizing lotion on for added protection.

4. Pour the wax into a small tub, bucket or dish. Wait until a thin layer of "skin" forms on the wax. This means it has cooled enough for your skin.

5. Dip your hands or feet into the wax and hold them there for approximately five seconds. Take them out for another five seconds. Place them back in the wax for another five seconds. Repeat this process until you have a nice layer of wax on your hands or feet.

6. Cover your hands or feet, whichever you just dipped, with plastic bags.

7. Let the wax sit for roughly 30 minutes.

8. Peel the wax off and coat your hands or feet with lotion. Save the wax, as you can melt and use it again.

Homemade Fire Starter

1. Fill the cups in a paper egg carton 1/4 full of sawdust, or use cupcake papers.

2. Pour the melted wax on top, leaving roughly 1/4 inch at the top of the cup or cupcake paper.

3. Dip cotton balls into the melted wax.

4. Press the cotton ball against the side of the double boiler with a fork and slowly release it. This allows it to soak the wax into the cotton ball.

5. Pull the cotton ball out of the wax and allow to dry.

References

• One Stop Candle: Fire Starter
• Homemade Beauty: Hand Wax Treatment
• Grace n' Glamour: Pamper Your Hands
• Free Camping Recipes: Cotton Ball Fire Starters