How to Make Wax Beads

Wax beads are small balls of wax sold in bulk. When wax is in this form rather than large, solid shapes, it's easier to melt quickly and uniformly. Using just a microwave and some kitchen utensils, you can create your own wax beads for sale or storage from a large brick of wax, without the need to fully melt it first.

Things You'll Need

• Wax in large blocks
• Microwave
• Large kitchen knife
• Microwave-safe plate
• Cookie sheet
• Plastic bag, resealable container or box

Instructions

1. Soften the wax in the microwave. The amount of time this takes will vary depending on the type of wax you have (for example, paraffin melts with less heat than beeswax) and the amount. Cook the wax on high for 15 to 20 seconds at a time until it's soft enough to move with your finger.

2. Cut the wax into rectangular strips. Make the strips as straight, even and close to identical as you can.

3. Trim the strips into short, square pieces. Again, make these pieces as close to identical as you can by measuring and cutting the same distance for each cut off the end of the wax strips.

4. Re-soften the small wax pieces. Spread out the small pieces on a plate (so that they aren't clumped together or touching each other) and soften them in the microwave. Try just 10 seconds at a time to start.

5. Round the small pieces in your hands. Take one piece of wax at a time and form it into a ball by rolling it between your flattened palms. Set the balls aside on a cookie sheet or countertop.

6. Let the wax balls harden and cure fully. When they are finished, store them together in a box, resealable container or plastic bag.