How to Make a Honey Comb Section

Cut honeycomb sections to make attractive gifts.

Beekeeping is increasing in popularity as many people are interested in harvesting their own honey for home use. Large commercial beekeepers use extractors to separate the honey from the waxy comb, but if you only have one or two hives you may want to keep some of the honeycomb whole when you harvest. These honeycomb sections make attractive and interesting gifts that let you share your delicious honey and promote beekeeping as a hobby.

Things You'll Need

• Protective bee gear
• Comb slicing pan
• Knife
• Storage containers

Instructions

1. Remove the wooden frame from the hive and place it in the pan.

2. Cut around the inside of the frame with a knife to remove the honeycomb.

3. Cut the comb into sections of any size using a knife. Place smaller pieces in jars that are then filled with honey. Put larger squares in flat containers with tight-sealing lids.

4. Remove the comb sections from storage when you are ready to use the honey. Cut the caps off the honeycomb cells with a sharp knife and allow the honey to drain out.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a thin wax foundation for comb honey in the hive to get high quality honeycomb sections.

References

• Basic Beekeeping: The Honey Crop
• Great Plains Nature Center: Honeybee
• Outdoor Place: Harvesting Honey