How to Make Homemade Beeswax Candles (Simple DIY Guide)
Make your own eco-friendly candles that smell amazing and purify the air! This beeswax candle tutorial is perfect for beginners — with pro tips and scent ideas.
Yield: 4 candles
Cost: $3–5 per jar
Materials
- Beeswax pellets or blocks (100% pure beeswax)
- Cotton or hemp wicks
- 2-4 jars Candle jars or molds
- Double boiler or heat-safe pouring pitcher
- Essential oils (optional, for scent)
- Thermometer
- Wooden skewer or pencil (to hold wick in place)
Instructions
- Melt the Wax: Use a double boiler to melt the beeswax slowly. Stir occasionally and heat until the temperature reaches approximately 145°F–150°F (63 °C–65°C).
- Prepare the Wick: Center your wick in the jar and use a skewer or pencil to hold it in place.
- Add Essential Oils (Optional): When the wax is melted and cooled to about 135°F, add 10–20 drops of your favorite essential oils per 8 oz candle for a light scent.
- Pour the Wax: Pour the melted wax into containers, leaving a half-inch space at the top.
- Cool and Trim: Let candles cool completely, then trim the wick to ¼ inch before lighting.
Notes
Pro Tips for Perfect Homemade Beeswax Candles
- Add Coconut Oil for Better Burn: Mix in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil per pound of beeswax to help prevent tunneling and ensure an even melt pool.
- Warm Your Containers: Preheat your jars slightly before pouring to prevent cracking or sinkholes as the wax cools.
- Cure Before Lighting: Let your candles rest for 24–48 hours before burning to allow the scent and wax to set properly.
Candle Care & Safety Tips
- Always trim the wick to ¼ inch before lighting.
- Don’t burn candles longer than 4 hours at a time.
- Keep away from drafts and flammable items.
- Use a heat-resistant surface under candles.