Saturday, June 1, 2013

Gloomy Days and Beeswax Candles

How to make beeswax candles!
Although it is summer in Hawai'i, there are some gloomy days. Usually during summer, I'll go on a run in the morning and then plan what to do for the rest of my day. Today, I had one of the best runs in a while because of this nice and chilly running weather. Chilly weather for me is like 70 degrees farenheit which I know is not cold at all. Anyways, I would usually catch the bus to the beach, go shop at whole foods, or meet up with friends but today, It was raining so hard that walking to the bus stop seemed like a journey! So instead, I stayed home and drank tea in my room... then as I looked up, I saw my candle making supplies and an idea popped into my head! Why not make some awesome beeswax candles to warm up my house and fill it with a beautiful light honey scent. Why not... Why yes. I gathered my supplies and got to work!

Before I write about how to make these awesome beeswax candles, I would like to share a story of how I first got interested in beeswax candles. Beeswax candles are basically made from the wax of bees. The great thing about this is that there's no harsh chemicals and it's all-natural. They are non-carcinogenic, and fragrance free. In my opinion, beeswax candles are the best because they don't have an irritating fragrance that make my allergies act up, and they don't harm my body. It's a win win, so onto the DIY beeswax candles.

DIY Beeswax Candles

What you'll need:
-a few jars or containers to use as your candle (jars can really be anything, I used a wooden bowl!)
-The amount of candle wicks should equal the amount of jars you're using. (you can purchase this from a craft store)
-Essential oils (optional: spearmint, peppermint, lavender etc.)
-Scotch tape
-Beeswax (You can purchase this from Whole foods or any health food store)
-Thermometer

1. Set up your jars and candle wicks so it'll be ready when your beeswax is melted.
2. Depending on the amount of jars you have, set out two pieces of scotch table on the edge of your table so you'll be prepared. 
3. If your beeswax comes in chunks like mine did, try to break it up into smaller pieces so it will melt easily. 
If not, then you don't have to. Place your beeswax in a pot or pyrex cup and heat on the stove at 145 degrees farenheit. Don't exceed 175 degrees or your wax may burn. 
4. Once your wax is melted, take a jar and pour enough wax to make 1/4 inch. Carefully place your candle wick inside and hold until the wax is dry. Repeat for each jar. This will ensure that your candle wicks are secure.

5. Take your prepared scotch tape and create an X across the top of your jar then poke a hole inside. Pull your candle wick through and repeat for each jar.
6. Carefully pour your beeswax into each jar until a quarter of an inch from the top. Leave to dry. 
7. Once your candles are done, you can enjoy the soothing feel these candles give off! 




Later in the day, I went for an awesome bike ride in my neighborhood and there was a light drizzle. It was super refreshing and I got the awesome treat of seeing this huge sunflower. 




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