How to Make Wax-Dipped Scented Bears

A common teddy bear is anything but ordinary when dipped in scented wax.

Wax-dipped scented teddy bears make whimsical air fresheners for your home. The wax gives the fur an old-fashioned matted look, but because it's translucent, the source of the effect isn't immediately clear. The source of the scent, on the other hand, is. The same intensely scented oils that candle makers use add a lovely fragrance to the bears. Dip bears---or any stuffed animal you choose---for yourself, give them as gifts or sell them at craft fairs and flea markets. When the scent begins to fade, renew your bears with a second dip.

Things You'll Need

• Pot for melting wax
• 1 pound of candle wax
• Candy thermometer
• 1 1/2 ounces of fragrance oil
• Heavy gloves
• Tongs
• Teddy bear
• Drying rack
• Waxed paper
• Fork
• Plate

Instructions

1. Melt the wax to 170 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit in a pot. Use a candy thermometer to determine the temperature.

2. Add scented oil. Stir well with tongs to incorporate the oil fully into the melted wax.

3. Dip the teddy bear in the hot wax. Hold it by its neck with the tongs, and push it into the wax. Turn and roll the bear in the wax until the entire surface is coated. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the hot wax.

4. Remove the bear from the wax. Squeeze the excess wax from its fur. Place the bear on a drying rack over waxed paper.

5. Comb and fluff the bear's fur using a fork.

6. Move the bear's limbs and head into whatever position you prefer.

7. Allow the bear to dry.

8. Sit the bear on a plate to protect your furniture surface. Display the bear.

Tips & Warnings

• Soy wax residue completely washes from your melting pot and fork with soap and water. If you use a wax other than soy, you'll no longer be able to use the melting pot or fork for food.

• Bears with jointed limbs are easier to position than are unjointed bears.

• Long-haired bears turn out best because the fur fluffs better, but short-haired bears are easier for beginners to handle.

• Avoid discoloring white bears' fur by using clear fragrance oil.

• For darker-colored bears, tint the wax to match the fur with candle wax dye so that flaking wax isn't terribly noticeable.

• Peel dried wax off the wax paper and store it for the next time you dip bears.

References

• BitterCreek Candle Supply: Instruction Sheet: How to Make Wax-Dipped Bears
• Old Fashioned Living: How to Make Wax-Dipped Scented Teddy Bears