Tyler Brooks
I'm sorry, I'm not sure how to interpret your request. If you would like to know how to install a beeswax candle, I can tell you how to make a beeswax candle. However, if you would like to know how to install a beeswax candle in a specific type of candle holder, I may be able to help with that.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wick
The first step in choosing the right wick is to consult the manufacturer's recommendations and then test the wick by burning a sample candle. Burn the candle for about an hour per inch in diameter. If the wax pool reaches close to the edge, then you have found the right wick. If the outside of the container is too hot, there's soot on the sides, or the wick is tunneling down the centre of the wax and not burning the sides, try a different size.
The size of the wick depends on the diameter of the candle, the type of wax used, and the desired burn time. Beeswax is a dense, hard wax that requires a larger wick than softer vegetable waxes such as soy or rapeseed wax. A larger wick will also provide a brighter, steadier flame, but it will consume the wax faster. A wick that is too small will result in a dim, flickering flame and will not melt the wax evenly.
The material of the wick is also important. Wicks can be made of cotton, wood, hemp, or paper. Square braided cotton wicks are ideal for beeswax pillars as they burn evenly, cleanly, and safely. ECO candle wicks made of organic cotton and paper fibres are self-trimming and clean-burning, making them excellent for waxes with a lower melting point. Hemp wicks are biodegradable and non-toxic, and they are an excellent choice for beeswax pillars and container candles up to 7 inches tall.
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Preparing your wicks
Firstly, you need to cut your wicking to the right length. For taper candles, cut the wicking to at least twice the length of the desired candle size. For pillar candles, you will need to consult a wick size chart to determine the right wick size based on the diameter of your candle. Beeswax is a dense wax, so it requires a larger wick than softer waxes.
Next, weight both ends of the wicking with a cheap metal object, such as a screw or a nut, to keep the wick straight. You can then slide the wicking through your rigs so you can dip two tapers at once.
For pillar candles, thread the wick through the wick hole at the base of the mould. This can be tricky, so if the wick frays, dip the end in melted wax and form a pointed end. Tie a small knot at the base, then secure the top of the wick by tying it to a pencil or skewer.
For taper candles, leave about 1" of wicking above the top of the mould. You can then secure the wick in the centre using a bobby pin or popsicle sticks.
Finally, prime your wick by keeping it in the wax until you see the bubbles stop. Dip again, hold for a few seconds, then pull up and wait 3-4 minutes before dipping again. Repeat this process until you reach the desired thickness, then trim off the bottom section with a sharp knife.
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Melting the wax
When using a double boiler, it is important to use a clamp to keep the pitcher from floating in the water. Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to medium. Adjust the temperature as needed and never leave melting wax unattended. Beeswax is flammable, so keep a close eye on it while it's melting and ensure no wax pellets scatter onto your hot stovetop. If the wax starts to smoke, it's a sign that it's getting too hot.
The ideal temperature for dipping tapers is about 165°F (74°C). If the wax is too hot, it will melt off the wicks, and if it's too cool, it will form wrinkles on the candles. Test the temperature with a thermometer to ensure it stays within the ideal range. According to Brambleberry, the best pouring temperature is between 155 and 160°F (68-71°C). Beeswax will begin to scorch at around 200°F (93°C).
Once the wax has melted, you can add essential oils or fragrances if desired. In general, use about 1-2 ounces of scent per pound of beeswax, or 0.5-1 ounce of stronger essential oils per 8 ounces of melted wax. Stir the wax gently while adding the scent, as the essential oils will coagulate and may require reheating.
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Adding scent
Beeswax has a natural honey scent, but you can add your own fragrance to customise your candle. To do this, melt the wax to 185°F and then let it cool to 140-165°F before adding your chosen scent. You can use any essential oil or fragrance oil, but it's important to be aware of the flashpoint (the temperature at which the oil can ignite) of the oil you're using. Most essential oils have a flashpoint between 100-200°F (37-93°C).
You can also add coconut oil to your candle, which helps the beeswax burn evenly and brings out the scent. A good ratio is 8-10% fragrance oil to wax, with 1% coconut oil. You may need to make a few test candles to find your preferred strength.
- Eucalyptus: refreshing and invigorating
- Vanilla: comforting and sweet
- Chamomile: gentle and floral
- Frankincense: deep and resinous
- Lavender: floral and calming
- Jasmine: floral
- Cedarwood: woody
- Ylang-ylang: floral
Beeswax is a natural and renewable resource, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic candle materials. It is the least processed of all candle waxes and is sourced from the sustainable industry of honey farming.
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Pouring the wax
Now that you have prepared your wicks and candle containers, it's time to melt the beeswax and pour it into your chosen containers.
First, fill a large pot halfway with water and place it on the stove. Turn the heat to medium. Then, place a smaller pot or pitcher inside the larger pot. This setup is called a double boiler and is important for melting beeswax safely, as direct heat can burn the wax and alter its natural scent and colour. You can also use a large Pyrex measuring cup in the microwave, but this takes longer, as you have to heat the wax in bursts.
Next, slowly add your beeswax to the inner pot or pitcher, stirring it occasionally with a wooden skewer or spoon. Keep a close eye on the wax as it melts to ensure it doesn't get too hot. Beeswax is flammable, so never leave it unattended while melting. If you notice any wax pellets on your stovetop, remove them immediately. If the wax starts to smoke, it's a sign that it's getting too hot. The ideal temperature for pouring beeswax is between 155 and 165 °F (68.3 and 73.9 °C).
Once your wax has melted, turn off the heat and add coconut oil if desired, stirring to combine. Coconut oil helps the candle burn more consistently and prevents "tunnelling," where the middle of the candle melts down while leaving wax around the edges. You can also add essential oils at this stage if you want to scent your candles. However, keep in mind that essential oils are volatile and may not withstand high temperatures, resulting in a weaker scent.
Finally, pour the wax into your prepared containers and centre your wicks using a pencil or skewer. Place the candles in a warm area to harden. If they cool too quickly, the wax may crack, so consider placing them in a preheated oven that has been turned off. Leave the candles to cure for at least one day before trimming the wicks and lighting your handmade beeswax candles!
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Frequently asked questions
Cut a length of wicking that is at least twice the length of the desired length of your taper candle. Weight each end of the wicking with a cheap metal object, such as a screw, to keep the wick straight.
You will need a wax melter, such as a double boiler, a small pot, a large glass Pyrex, or a candle pitcher. You will also need a wooden skewer to stir the wax.
Heat the beeswax to between 155 and 165 °F. If the wax gets too hot, it will melt off the wicks. If it is too cool, the wax will form wrinkles on the candle.
Direct the flame at the base of the wick so that the wax melts and is drawn up into the wick. Allow the candle to burn until the wax melts out to the side of the jar.
