How to Process Raw Beeswax to Make Candles

Honey isn't the only valuable product obtained from bees.

Beeswax is a versatile raw material. It can be found in cosmetics, soaps, medicines, and furniture polish. Processed beeswax is available in many craft stores and is usually expensive. If you have a source for raw beeswax, you'll be able to save money by refining it yourself. Processing raw beeswax to make candles is simple. You may already have the necessary equipment in your kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Raw beeswax
• Water
• Double boiler
• Stove burner or other heat source
• Cheesecloth
• Funnel
• Collection vessel

Instructions

1. Place the raw beeswax in the upper portion of your double boiler.

2. Fill the lower portion of your double boiler with water.

3. Fit both sections of the double boiler together and place them over a stove burner.

4. Turn the burner on. Bring the temperature of the water up to 185 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the melting point of beeswax. Do not heat the water to the boiling point. Excessive heat will discolor the wax.

5. Allow the beeswax to melt completely.

6. Stretch a double layer of cheesecloth over the top of your funnel. Secure the edges of the cloth with a large rubber band.

7. Place the funnel over the top of your collection vessel. Pour the melted wax slowly into the funnel.

Tips & Warnings

• If your raw beeswax contains a large amount of honey, rinse it under lukewarm running water before melting. Honey is water-soluble and will quickly wash away from the wax.

• Heat your beeswax in a double boiler only. Excessive heat can damage the wax as well as pose the danger of setting it on fire.

References

• North Carolina State University: Beeswax
• Fain's Honey: The Production and Processing of Beeswax
• Hive Harvest: Processing Raw Beeswax
• Honey Flow Farm: Candle Making FAQ

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish