© By Deborah S. Tukua
www.hollycreekbooks.com

There’s something special about the simplicity of a beeswax candle. Using beeswax to make candles eliminates the need for extra scent or color to be added. Beeswax has the subtle, natural fragrance of honey and ranges from light gold, to yellow to tan in color.

To make a beeswax candle, you’ll need these supplies: beeswax, candle wicking, wick clips, pot for melting, handled container for pouring, wood spoon, and a glass container to house your candle

Where to get beeswax~
Beeswax is available in craft and hobby stores and from on-line candle supply companies. To purchase a large supply of beeswax, contact a local beekeeper. Many beekeepers sell the wax. However, if you buy beeswax from a beekeeper you may need to clean it first. This is accomplished by melting the wax, then straining it to remove debris.

Glass containers~
Select the container of your choice. Some attractive glass containers include ivy bowls; apothecary jars with lids, brandy snifters or glass votives. Many craft stores carry a unique selection of glass containers.

Directions for making a candle~
1. Add broken chunks of beeswax to the top pot in a double boiler. Use an old pot to melt the wax that you can designate just for candle making. Use a wooden spoon to carefully stir the wax during the melting process. Direct heat can be used successfully to melt wax if you keep it on low heat. Do not leave melting wax unattended.
2. Cut the wick a couple of inches longer than the glass container.
3. Place one end of the wick through a round, metal wick clip. This holds the wick in place during the process. Set the clip and wick in the bottom center of the glass container. 4. Wind the excess wicking at the opening of the container around a pencil or long nail and lay across the top.
5. Pour the melted beeswax from the pot into a handled container and pour it into the glass.
6. Allow the poured candle in the glass container to dry naturally at room temperature 24 hours. Clip the excess wick and remove the pencil before lighting.

Now it’s your turn to share a country hobby of yours with us! Tell us a little bit about your craft or hobby. Post your comments below.

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