How to Use a Double Boiler to Melt Beeswax
Beeswax is highly flammable and requires a close eye if you are melting the wax on the stove. The use of a double boiler is almost a necessity unless you own the specialized equipment used in the beekeeping profession. While the task itself is easy, it should not be performed by children with out adult supervision. The key to melting beeswax is to keep the water in the lower pan hot, but not boiling.
Things You'll Need
- Shaved beeswax
- Double boiler
- Old wooden spoon
- Hot Pad
- Prepared wax molds
Instructions
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Bring three inches of water to a boil in the lower section of the double boiler. Turn the heat down to low until the water is hot, but not boiling.
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Place shaved beeswax, or small beeswax chunks, into the upper pan of the double boiler.
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Set the upper pan into the lower pan of the double boiler.
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Watch the wax carefully as it begins to melt. Stir the wax gently to smooth out any lumps using an old, wooden spoon. If the wax begins to foam up, use the hot pad to raise the upper pot of the double boiler away from the heat.
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5
Continue to stir the wax until the wax is uniformly melted. Pour into prepared molds.
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Tips & Warnings
Beeswax has a high melting temperature of 143 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
When melting beeswax, most impurities will sink to the bottom of the pan, as beeswax is lighter than the impurities or the honey.
Beeswax molds are available for purchase at hobby shops--or make your own from old milk cartons or juice containers.
If you do not own a double boiler, place an empty mushroom can in the center of a large pot. Fill the pot with water to within one-fourth of an inch of the top of the mushroom can. Place a smaller pot or clean coffee can on top of the can to act as a double boiler.
If you purchased beeswax in a large block, cut the beeswax into smaller chunks or shave the block with a vegetable peeler. The beeswax will melt faster.
