How to Make Beeswax & Coconut Oil Candles with Essential Oils
I decided to make my citrus peel beeswax and coconut oil candles. I used sweet orange, lemon, and grapefruit essential oils.
Making your own beeswax and coconut oil candles infused with essential oils is a rewarding and simple process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own natural candles at home.
Materials Needed:
1 cup (melted) beeswax pellets or 8- 1 oz beeswax bars
1/2 cup solid coconut oil - I get mine here
Essential oils of your choice (e.g., lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus)
Candle wicks- I get mine here
Heat-resistant containers or jars
Double boiler or a heat-safe bowl and pot
Stirring stick, spoon, or popsicle stick
Thermometer (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare Your Workspace: Clear a flat, stable surface for candle making. Gather all your materials to ensure a smooth process.
Melt the Beeswax and Coconut Oil:
Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over low-medium heat.
Place the beeswax in the top pot or a heat-safe bowl and sit it on top of the simmering water.
Stir occasionally as the beeswax starts to melt.
Once the beeswax is nearly melted, add the coconut oil. Stir continuously until both are completely melted and combined.
Check Temperature: If you have a thermometer, aim for a pouring temperature of about 140°F to 160°F. This ensures that the essential oils will hold their scent when mixed. Otherwise I usually wait around 10 minutes after melting the wax to start pouring into desired jars.
Add Essential Oils: Once your mixture is at the right temperature, remove it from heat and add your chosen essential oils. A good starting point is 20-30 drops of essential oil per cup of wax. Adjust according to your scent preference. Mix thoroughly to distribute the oils evenly.
Secure Your Wicks: Before pouring, pre-secure your candle wicks to the bottom of your containers. You can do this by dipping the base of the wick in the melted wax, then sticking it to the bottom of your jar. Alternatively, you can use a wick holder.
Pour Your Candle Mixture: Slowly pour the melted beeswax and coconut oil mixture into your prepared containers, leaving about half an inch of space from the top. Be careful not to disturb the wick.
Let It Cool: Allow the candles to cool and solidify at room temperature. This may take a few hours.
Trim the Wicks: Once your candles are completely cooled and solidified, trim the wicks to about a quarter of an inch above the wax surface.
Enjoy Your Candles: Your all-natural beeswax and coconut oil candles are now ready to use! Light them up to enjoy a soothing ambiance infused with the lovely scents of your chosen essential oils.
Tips:
Experiment with different essential oil combinations to create your perfect scent.
If cracks or air bubbles occur pour more of the melted wax mixture ontop to correct it.
Use colored beeswax or add natural dyes if you desire colored candles.
Store your candles in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Enjoy the warm glow and delightful fragrance of your handcrafted candles, bringing a touch of nature into your home!