Make Simple Beeswax Candles with Kids
Beeswax candles are fun gifts kids can make.
Want the kids to make a handmade gift for a loved one? These beeswax candles make great homemade presents that are sure to bring joy to others. And the best part is they are simple to make, the craft can be done in one sitting, and there’s virtually no mess.
It’s easier than you think to make beeswax candles with kids thanks to this kit of beeswax sheets and cotton wicks.
The kit we used is by Magic Cabin, but the link we’re including comes with decorative punches as well (which adds to the fun of the candle making).
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Place the cotton wick along one edge.
Tightly and evenly roll the wax sheet.
Cut at an angle to make a spiral taper.
Steps for Making the Candles
Choose the color and size of candle you and your kiddos want to make. (The wax sheets can be cut in half to make shorter candles or they can be cut at an angle to make a spiral taper. Or keep it simple and use a full sheet to make a smooth taper candle.)
Gently warm the sheets of wax you plan to use. This will make them more pliable so they will roll without cracking. (A few minutes inside a toaster oven on the absolute lowest setting works well for this. You can also use a hair dryer.)
While beeswax sheets are warming up, cut the cotton wick to the right length for each candle. It needs to be as tall as your candle plus almost an inch more. (You can always trim them later.)
Cut or punch out designs for decorating the candles. Kids can punch shapes out of spare sheets of the beeswax from the kit, but we found it’s easier to use decorative punches on smooth sheets of wax instead of the honeycomb wax sheets. Note: If your beeswax kit does not come with decorative punches, you can order these ones from Klay Kutters.
When the wax sheets are warm enough to be pliable, but not too hot to touch, lay the wick just inside one edge (the long edge if making a spiral taper) of the wax. Begin rolling the sheet over the wick, pressing tightly.
Continue slowly rolling the wax sheet to the end and press tightly to seal.
Gently press on any wax decorations you punched out.
Place your candle into a candle holder or press it onto a mason jar lid.
Roll it tight and straight.
Use punches on smooth wax sheets.
Gently press on designs.
Handmade beeswax candles make a great handicraft.
Tips to Keep in Mind
Keep the wax sheets on parchment paper or wax paper when warming them and when working with them to ensure the easiest cleanup.
Roll the wax sheet slowly, checking that you’re keeping the bottom edge even as you go.
Roll the wax sheet very tight against the wick so it stays together once it’s upright.
Demonstrate the tips above to kids before letting them make their own candle.
An adult may have to begin the candle rolling to ensure it starts off correctly (tight and straight).
Be sure to work on top of a cutting board when cutting and punching the wax sheets.
Spend a little time planning your design before cutting and punching. Think about color theory. Decide if you want to use complementary colors or analogous colors in your design. (Kids learn all about color theory in our Mimic the Masters art curriculum.)
Beeswax candles are a great handicraft for kids of all ages to try. They promote fine motor skills, provide practice in color theory, and allow for a great deal of creativity.
Make some beeswax candles with your kiddos and keep them as part of your decor, gift them to a loved one, or burn them to create a cozy ambience.
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