How to Make Beeswax Pillar Candles (Step-by-Step Guide)

What if I told you that you have a candle that does more than light up your room? A candle that cleans the air, soothes your senses, and supports the environment. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s a reality. It’s a beeswax pillar candle. Beeswax pillar candles are unmade from natural and renewable materials that are good for you and the planet.

 

Making beeswax pillar candles is a fun and easy craft you can personalize with your favorite colors and scents. You’ll also help your local beekeepers and the bees that make this amazing wax. In this article, I’ll show you how to make your own beeswax pillar candles with simple and cheap materials. Are you ready to create some magic? Let’s go!

The Benefits of Making Beeswax Pillar Candles

Beeswax pillar candles are a great choice for candle making because they have many benefits, such as:

• They burn longer and purer than other styles of candles.
• They trickle less and create less mess.
• They emit a sweet, slight fragrance that can calm your nerves and lift your mood.
• They are made from a renewable and eco-friendly resource that supports the bees.

Materials You Will Need

To make beeswax pillar candles at home, you will need the following items:

• Bulk beeswax
• Cotton wicks
• Double boiler
• Thermometer
• Pillar candle molds
• Wick-stickers
• Bamboo skewers

How to Make Beeswax Pillar Candles in 4 Easy Steps

Now that you have all the supplies ready. Let’s move on to the steps of making beeswax pillar candles at home:

Step 1: Melt the wax

The first step is to melt the wax in a double boiler over low to medium heat. Cut the wax into small pieces and place them in the top bowl of the double boiler. Fill the bottom of the bowl with water and bring it to a boil. Then reduce the heat. Let the water parboil gently.

Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the wax, which should be around 150°F (65°C). Stir the wax occasionally with a bamboo skewer until it is completely melted and smooth.

Step 2: Prep the molds and the wicks

The next step is to prepare the molds and wicks for pouring the wax. Spray some cooking spray or vegetable oil on the inside of each mold to prevent the wax from sticking.

Cut each wick about 2 inches (5 cm) longer than the height of each mold. Attach a wick sticker to one end of each wick and press it firmly to the center of the bottom of each mold.

Step 3: Pour the wax

The third step is to pour the wax into each mold, leaving about ½ inch (1 cm) of space at the top. Carefully transfer the melted wax to a heat-resistant container with a spout, such as a glass measuring cup. Slowly pour the wax into each mold, making sure not to spill or splash it. Use a bamboo skewer to straighten and center each wick in each mold.

Step 4: Let the candles cool and harden

The final step is to let the candles cool and harden completely before removing them from the molds. Place the molds on a flat surface and let them cool for at least 4 hours or overnight. Do not move or disturb the candles while they are cooling. When the candles are solid, gently remove them from the molds and trim the wicks to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) above the wax.

Decorate Your Beeswax Pillar Candles

Beeswax pillar candles can be decorated in different ways to add a personal touch to your home decor. Here are some ideas for decorating your candles

Using Pressed Leaves

One way to decorate your candles is by using pressed leaves. To create pressed leaf candle pillars, warm beeswax sheets, and press leaves onto the surface of the wax. Use a heat gun to warm the beeswax sheets.

Using Ribbon, Lace, or Burlap

Another way to decorate your candles is by using ribbon, lace, burlap, or other materials to wrap around the candle. These materials can add texture and color to your candles.

How to Double Boil The Wax

To double-boil the wax, you just follow the following steps

1. Chop the wax into chunks.
2. Place the wax in a heat-resistant container.
3. Heat water in a large pot until it reaches a simmer.
4. Put the container filled with wax into the simmering water.
5. Stir occasionally until the wax melts smoothly.
6. Be patient and avoid high heat.
7. Never leave the melting process unattended.
8. Handle hot containers with caution.

How do you put wicks in candle molds?

You put wicks in candle molds by cutting a piece of wick that is longer than the height of your mold and inserting it through the hole at the bottom of the mold. You tie a knot at the end of the wick and secure it with some tape or glue. Now pull the other end of the wick up and wrap it around a pencil or a skewer. You place the pencil across the top of the mold to keep the wick centered and straight.

Conclusion

Beeswax pillar candles are a great way to enhance your home and enjoy the benefits of natural and eco-friendly materials.  It’s a simple and fun activity to make them at home. You can customize them. I hope you found this article on how to make beeswax pillar candles at home useful and informative. Happy crafting!

FAQs

Can you scent beeswax candles?

Yes, you can scent beeswax candles by adding essential oils to your melted wax before pouring it into your mold. You can use any scent, such as lavender, lemon, or peppermint. Make sure, they are compatible with beeswax and don’t affect its burning quality.

How do you pour beeswax pillar candles?

First, pour beeswax pillar candles by carefully pouring the melted wax into your prepared mold, leaving some space at the top. Now, use a funnel or a spout to make it easier and avoid spills. You can also add color or fragrance to your wax before pouring it.

How do I store my beeswax pillar candles?

You can store your beeswax pillar candles in a cool and dry place. Take away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You can also wrap them in parchment paper to protect them from dust and moisture.

How long do beeswax pillar candles last?

Beeswax pillar candles last longer. They burn slower and more evenly. The exact duration depends on the size and shape of your candle, but generally, a beeswax pillar candle can burn for about 5 hours per inch of diameter.

How do I clean my mold after making a beeswax pillar candle?

You can clean your mold by wiping it. With a paper towel or a cloth while it’s still warm. You can also use some hot water and soap to remove any residue. If your mold is metal, put it in the freezer for a few minutes and then pop out the remaining wax.