Jessie Taylor
Beeswax candles are a popular choice for those who want to avoid the drip and soot of traditional paraffin candles. They are also hypoallergenic and have a longer burn time. While the natural colour of beeswax candles can vary from ivory to yellow to golden, some people prefer to add dyes to achieve a specific colour scheme. There are several ways to dye beeswax candles, including using colour chips, powder dyes, or even natural dyes like turmeric or beetroot powder. Some manufacturers use a small amount of a non-toxic, vegetable-based dye called enviro-dye to colour their beeswax candles. Others recommend using candle dye chips or powder specifically made for candles, while some people use thick food colouring or even crayons (although these are not recommended as they can contain chemicals that are not meant to be inhaled). To dye beeswax candles, one must first melt the wax, then add the chosen dye, and stir until the colour is evenly distributed.
Characteristics and Values table for dyeing beeswax candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types of dye | Candle dye, natural dyes, mica powder, food colouring, crayons, candle dye chips, liquid candle dye, powder candle dye, enviro-dye, Rit Dye |
| Pros of natural dyes | Natural dyes are plant-based and do not contain chemicals that are not meant to be inhaled |
| Cons of natural dyes | Natural dyes may not bond well with beeswax and may not produce strong pigmentation |
| Pros of mica powder | Mica powder is a natural colour additive that creates bright, intense colours |
| Pros of candle dye | Candle dye is formulated specifically for colouring beeswax and produces excellent colour consistency, strength, and stability |
| Cons of food colouring | Food colouring may not bond well with beeswax |
| Cons of crayons | Crayons contain chemicals that are not meant to be inhaled |
| Pros of enviro-dye | Enviro-dye is a non-toxic, environmentally friendly, vegetable-based dye that is free of many common chemicals and is not tested on animals |
| Pros of Rit Dye | Rit Dye offers a wide range of colours and customization options, making it ideal for weddings, parties, home décor, and gifts |
| Dyeing process | Melt beeswax in a double boiler, add dye, stir, and dip candle into dyed beeswax for 5-10 seconds |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right dye
When choosing a dye for your beeswax candles, it's important to select one that is suitable for the purpose and will not affect the natural properties of the beeswax. Beeswax is a natural substance that is hypoallergenic and good for people with chemical sensitivities. It is important not to use dyes that contain chemicals that may be harmful when burned.
One option is to use natural dyes such as herbs and spices like turmeric, paprika, rosemary, clove, and saffron to create natural shades. Natural plant-based dyes such as beetroot powder can also be used, although these may not produce as strong a pigment as candle dyes. Mica powder is another natural option that can create brighter, more intense colours. It is obtained from the naturally occurring mineral, muscovite mica.
Liquid candle dyes and colour chips are also available and are specifically formulated for colouring beeswax. These can be purchased from craft stores or online. When using these dyes, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions as the quantity and quality of the dye can affect the final colour.
For a more convenient option, coloured sheets of beeswax can be purchased and rolled into candles, eliminating the need for melting and moulding the wax. Coloured beeswax can also be used for other items such as lip balm, soap, hand lotion, and furniture polish.
It is worth noting that the natural colour of the beeswax will influence the final shade of the candle. For example, mixing blue and yellow dyes with the natural yellow beeswax may result in a greenish colour unless enough blue colourant is added. Therefore, when choosing a dye, consider the desired colour and the amount of dye needed to achieve it.
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Preparing the beeswax
To melt the beeswax, fill a large pot halfway with water and place it on the stove over medium heat. Place your beeswax in a pouring container and set it inside the pot of water to create a double boiler. Keep an eye on the temperature and adjust it if necessary—you want to avoid bringing the water to a boil, as this can burn the wax or cause it to splash into the pot. The melting process can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of your batch.
If you are making container candles, you can melt the wax directly in the jar by setting the jar inside a pot of simmering water. This method produces less waste. Ensure your container is heat-safe—glass, ceramic, and tin are good options, but plastic is not. You can use recycled items such as empty candle containers, salsa jars, or baby food jars. Containers under 3 inches in diameter are recommended to avoid the need for a large wick, which can create a smoky candle.
Once your beeswax is melted, you can add essential oils or experiment with different scent combinations. However, keep in mind that beeswax has a relatively high melting point, and some essential oils may not withstand the heat. Beeswax also has a naturally sweet scent, so you may choose to leave your candles unfragranced.
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Adding the dye
Beeswax is a natural substance that can be used to make candles, and it comes in blocks, pellets, chunks, and sheets. It is naturally hypoallergenic and emits negative ions, which have health benefits. The natural colour of beeswax varies from white to yellow, but you can add colours to suit your needs.
To add colour, you must first melt the beeswax. Prepare the beeswax by breaking or grating it into sizes that fit into the top of a double boiler. Put the wax in the top boiler with a cake thermometer and boil water in the lower boiler. The wax will melt at between 140 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 to 65 degrees Celsius).
Once the wax is melted, you can add the colour. You can use colour chips, candle dye, or powder specifically made for candles. Natural dyes such as turmeric powder or beetroot can also be used, but these will not be as strongly pigmented as candle dyes. You can also use natural substances like herbs and spices, such as rosemary, clove, and saffron, to create natural shades. For brighter, more intense colours, mica powder is a good option.
If using a liquid dye, add it to the melted wax. If using a powder, add it while the wax is still on the burner and stir. You can also dip your candles into coloured beeswax for the final two dips. However, this method may not produce as crisp of a colour, and it is more work.
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Dipping the candle
Melting the Beeswax
Firstly, prepare the beeswax for melting. Beeswax usually comes in blocks, pellets, chunks, or sheets. You will need to break or grate the beeswax into smaller sizes that fit into the top of a double boiler. The best way to melt beeswax is by using a double boiler due to its flammability. Put the wax in the top boiler with a cake thermometer. Boil water in the lower boiler. The wax will melt at a temperature between 140 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 to 65 degrees Celsius).
Adding the Dye
After the beeswax is melted, add the dye. You can use natural dyes such as turmeric powder, beetroot powder, or mica powder. You can also use candle dye chips, liquid candle dyes, or colourants specifically made for dyeing beeswax. These can be found on Amazon or in craft stores. If using a powder dye, add it while the wax is melting and stir. If using a liquid dye, add it after the wax has melted.
Once you are satisfied with the colour, dip the candle into the dyed beeswax for 5 to 10 seconds. Remove the candle carefully from the dye bath and let it dry on paper towels. You can also make the last two dips of the candle in coloured beeswax for a tinted effect.
Additional Tips
- The colour you add will be affected by the natural colour of the beeswax. For example, mixing blue and yellow will yield green unless you use enough blue colourant.
- The colour of melted wax will be different from the colour of solid wax.
- It is important to protect your clothing, countertops, and floors when melting beeswax.
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Drying the candle
Firstly, it is important to note that the drying time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your candles. For larger candles, it is recommended to allow at least 24 hours for the wax to fully harden. Smaller candles may take less time, but it is still advisable to give them a full day to dry. Ensure you have prepared a safe, undisturbed space for your candles to dry, away from any potential hazards or busy areas. Cover the surface with a protective layer, such as a plastic table cover, to prevent any accidental staining from the dyes.
The room temperature is also a crucial factor in the drying process. Aim for a cool, dry environment. If the room is too warm or humid, it may cause the wax to soften or take longer to set. An ideal temperature range for drying beeswax candles is between 18°C to 22°C (65°F to 72°F). If your room is particularly humid, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air, helping the candles dry more effectively.
Additionally, you can aid the drying process by using a fan. Place a small desk fan near your candles, set on low to medium speed, to create a gentle airflow. This will assist in evaporating any excess moisture and speeding up the hardening process. Ensure the fan is positioned at a safe distance, so it doesn't disturb any liquid wax.
For moulded candles, the drying process may involve multiple stages. After pouring the wax into your chosen moulds, allow it to cool and harden for a few hours. Then, carefully remove the candles from the moulds and place them in your designated drying area. This step ensures that the exterior of the candle has set, reducing the risk of any accidental deformities while still in the mould.
Finally, while your candles are drying, it is essential to avoid any disturbances that could impact their shape or surface. Ensure children and pets do not have access to the drying area. Any sudden movements, vibrations, or drafts can cause imperfections on the surface of the candles, so maintaining a calm and controlled environment is crucial.
By following these steps, you will ensure your dyed beeswax candles dry effectively, resulting in a high-quality finish.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use natural dyes such as mica powder, turmeric, paprika, rosemary, clove, saffron, beetroot powder or food colouring. Alternatively, you can use candle dye chips or liquid candle dyes.
If you are using natural dyes, you may need to use a larger quantity to achieve a brighter colour. If you are using a candle dye, a small amount (less than 0.0125%) should be enough to colour the wax.
If you are using a liquid dye, add it to the wax after melting. If you are using a powder, add it to the wax when it is melting and stir.
It is recommended to use a double boiler to melt the beeswax due to its flammability.
Dip the candle into the dyed beeswax for 5-10 seconds. Remove the candle carefully and let it dry on paper towels.
