Beeswax Tree Ornaments
Project

By Bob Sherman

I originally published this project in December 1998 after making these with my son's Cub Scout den. Although not candles, they are made with candle making supplies. Although this project uses this technique to make Christmas ornaments, the same technique may be applied for any season or occasion and these make nice wall hangings and sun catchers - if made properly they will hold up to all but the most intense direct sunlight.

In this project I use only pure beeswax because I like the color and fragrance, however you may scent and color these as desired.

Maintenance
Beeswax tends to "bloom" over time. This appears as a white film or oxidation on the surface. I have often been asked about an additive to prevent this, but I don't know of any. To refresh your ornaments, just use a warm blow dryer to gently heat the surface. This will restore the shine and the smell of natural beeswax.

PLEASE NOTE!! - This project requires working with hot wax so all normal candle making safety rules apply. Candle making can be dangerous if proper safety procedures are not followed. Please read these Safety Rules before attempting any candle making projects.

This article assumes basic candle making skills. If you are new to candle making, my Introduction To Candle Making Online Course is free and will show you all the basics for working with wax safely.

Wax Formula
No formula - just pure beeswax.

Candle Making Supplies

The following candle making supplies were used to make this project. Clicking on the item name will bring you to that item's page with a full description and ordering information.

Step By Step Instructions

1. If your mold sits flat it may be placed on the work surface. If the mold wobbles, then it must be supported. Photo shows the mold supported in a tray of sand.	2. Cut several lengths of wick - one for each ornament.
3. Melt the wax in a double boiler. Check the temperature before pouring. These must be poured at temperatures no hotter than 160 degrees F. or you will destroy the mold. Loop a length of wick.	4. Insert the wick into the mold as shown.
5. Use a toothpick or other pointed instrument to adjust the wick if necessary.	6. Repeat for each mold cavity, then allow to cool.
7. Once fully cooled, remove the ornaments from the mold.	8. Trim the edge with a sharp knife if necessary.
9. The arrow shows where the wick was inserted too soon making it visible on the front of the ornament.	10. Detail photo.
11. Detail photo.	12. The finished ornaments.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is accurate to the best of my knowledge and common candle making practices as of the time of this writing - November 2006. The author and the publisher accept no liability for the use or misuse of any of the information presented in this article. This article is presented for informational purposes and is used at your own risk.

Author: Bob Sherman

Publisher: Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc.

This article is provided free of charge for use. Candles may be made and sold using this design royalty free.

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