Things You'll Need:
- Saucepan
- Tall melting pot
- 1 lb. high-quality beeswax
- Wire coat hanger
- Scissors
- Pliers
- Taper candlewicks
- Small washers
- Large spoon
- Candy thermometer
- Liquid dye
- Utility knife
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Step 1
Place 2 inches of water in a saucepan. Set the heat on high.
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Step 2
Add the wax to the melting pot. Set the melting pot in the saucepan.
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Step 3
Place the candy thermometer in the melting pot. Turn the heat down on the saucepan once the water begins to boil.
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Step 4
Use a wire coat hanger to make the dipping frames. Cut the wire coat hanger on both sides 3 inches away from the wire hook. Bend the wire into a U shape. Create a hook on each end of the wire with pliers. These hooks will hold the candlewicks.
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Step 5
Measure out the taper candlewicks. The wicks need to be twice the length of the taper candles. Cut the candlewicks and tie a small, heavy washer to the end of each wick. Tie the two wicks to each hook on the wire coat hanger, with the washer at the bottom.
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Step 6
Once the candle wax melts completely, add one drop of liquid dye to the wax until you reach the desired color. Continue to stir the wax until the liquid dye dissolves.
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Step 7
Check the candy thermometer. When the temperature reads 160 degrees, it is time to dip the wicks. This temperature is very important. Continue to check the temperature to ensure that it stays at 160 to 170 degrees before continuing to dip the candles.
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Step 8
Use the dipping frame to dip the wicks in a steady and quick motion. Allow the candle wicks to sit in the wax for two minutes. Remove the dipping frame and hang it to dry for three to four minutes. Once the wax hardens, dip the candles in the wax and remove immediately. When the candles dry for a few minutes, repeat the process until you achieve the desired tapered candle width and length.
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Step 9
Cut the washers from the bottom of the candles. Trim the wick to three-quarters of an inch. Use a sharp utility knife to cut an even bottom on the candle. Allow the candles to dry completely before burning them.
