Beeswax Candles
Beeswax comes in sheets and can be found in most craft stores. You can shape or cut the beeswax sheets into the shape you want. You will need to allow the sheet to soften before rolling it by placing it in the sun or near a heater.
You will also need some lengths of wick, which you will be able to get from the craft store as well. When the wax is ready to roll place the wick right along an edge and roll from there.
Fold the edge over the wick and press down firmly allow about 8mm of wax for the fold. Doing this makes it easier to roll. Different shapes can be made by how you choose to roll the wax. The sheets are usually rectangular so for round symmetrical candles roll straight from any edge and add more sheets until you get the size you want.
For a tapering candle cut the sheet across the diagonal and roll from the straight edge for a short candle or from the diagonal for a longer candle. Make sure as you roll your candles the bottom edge rolls straight so they will stand up when finished.
Balloon Candles
Candle wax for balloon candles is melted and hot so care must be taken to avoid burns especially when children are helping. Wear protective gloves, clothing and eyewear.
Materials
- Block or parrafin wax
- Old saucepan
- Balloons
- Dyes for candles
- Wick
- Bamboo satay skewers
- Sink washers
Turn balloon inside out and fill with water until about the size of an orange. Tie securely. For melting the wax use a saucepan that is deep enough to dip the filled balloons into. Use a low heat to melt the wax to avoid boiling and burning. Remove melted wax from heat and add colours if desired.
Carefully holding the balloon by its knot dip it into slightly cooled wax. The wax will cling to the balloon, do this several times building up layers. After a few layers touch the bottom onto a flat surface to create a base for your candle. Dip your candle about 10 – 12 times. If the wax is not clinging well enough you may need to warm slightly as it has cooled too much.
Allow the balloon to set completely then cut the top off the balloon, pour out the water and carefully remove the balloon. Tie a length of wick to the washer and drop it into the candle casing.
Place the skewer across the top and drape the wick over it, centered then carefully pour in remaining wax, add scent if you wish and allow to set.
Enjoy 