Wax Dipped Crafts

Melted wax can be used for many dipping crafts.

Dipping objects in hot wax is an art form all its own. Items can be preserved by hot wax, used as an air freshener if a scented wax is used, and crafts can be protected by the coating. Hot wax can be used to create a wide variety of crafts from gifts to household decorations.

Flowers

Wax-dipped flowers are a craft project designed to preserve a flower in its prettiest form, before it begins to wilt. Dipping the flower in a hot wax, typically between 160 and 180 degrees F, preserves the flower petals. The stem can remain wax-free, but the base of the flower must be covered, as this seals the flower in its entirety. Once the excess wax beads have been shaken from the flower, it can be hung flower-side down, to cool into its permanent shape.

Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals can be dipped in scented wax and used as decorative air fresheners. The wax must be melted to less than 200 degrees F, as higher temperatures can melt and disfigure stuffed animals. Saturate the stuffed animal in the hot wax and scented oil combination for about two minutes, then remove and comb it before the wax hardens. Stuffed animals can take two hours to set and dry completely. To increase the scent of a wax-dipped stuffed animal, use a blow dryer on it for one minute every month.

Pictures and Collages

Dip your own artwork pieces, such as collages and photographs, briefly into hot wax to preserve them. The wax should be 200 degrees F or less and the items attached to the collage or the photograph being dipped should not be made of a plastic or material that melts at low temperatures. Also, if the wax is too hot, a fire can start. To cool, lay the artwork face up on wax paper for at least 10 minutes.

Pine Cones

Dip pine cones into hot wax to create decorative ornaments. The wax can be scented and colored, if desired. After the pine cones are dipped in the wax and have cooled on wax paper, use them to create decorations and ornaments, especially during the holidays.

References

• Lone Star Candle Supply: How to Make Wax Dipped Flowers
• Candle Tech: Wax Dipped Plush Animals
• Go Make Something: Wax Dipped ATCs
• Pine Cone Lady: Pine Cone Fire Starters with "Bottoms"