The honey, of course; but besides that, I've been saving the wax cappings from the comb we extracted.
My son Alex designed the labels. He's so talented! Hive Jinx, like hi-jinx. Get it?
Three years worth of cappings. Sheesh.
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Next, using an old milk carton and some cheese cloth...
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Melting the wax using a double boiler
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(Sorry for the harsh lighting. Ick.)
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Straining it to catch old bee parts and other sludge
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Pure beeswax smells delicious. I let it cool overnight.
The next step is to find some decent taper candle molds, and wick. If anybody out there has made taper candles and can recommend a good mold, that would be awesome. And any other advice for molded candles you might have. I have made hand-dipped before, but never poured molds. Thanks, pals!
24 comments:
I wrote a comment on my phone and I guess it ate it. Anyway, I am so excited!!!
I can't wait to see the candles. Have you seen those candles that are rolled honeycomb? how do they DO that?
JoAnn, yes, I have seen and made the rolled honeycomb type before. They're a PAIN to make. In my opinion.
So beeautiful! (sic)
Love the new labels! Great job, A!
I think you can get taper molds from Brushy Mountain or Mann Lake. Other than that, I'm no help at all. :-)
BTW, here is a cool video for a solar wax melter that I thought you might like, though your method does seem nice and fast. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSekQk2Zc9Y
Julie, yes, I've seen the molds on Brushy Mountain. I'm hoping to hear from someone who's actually used them. People always have great tips. The labels were designed and made by Alex. In fact, I'm going to go write that on my blog right now.
Ooh, I forgot all about beeswax. That's another something added to my son-in-laws list of "I wants" when the honey is ready. ;)
I love pillar candles, and use the altar candles at church to create our Paschal candle each Easter. My mold is a 2 1/2 inch length of Schedule 40 PVC, with a test cap at the bottom. I use mold sealer to seal the bottom, drill a hole in the test cap to run the wick through, and tighten the wick at the other end over a chopstick or skewer. I add a little 100% beeswax to add that wonderful fragrance and golden color. Wish I could mold a Paschal candle out of 100% beeswax. It's not a taper, but it's almost free.
Gina, THANK YOU !!! Question what is a test cap?
My favorite parts is where you drained out the old bee parts and other sludge.
I love when you invite us in to see what you've been up to :)
Nancy, haha. Sludge can be interesting. ;)
So cool! That bee's wax looks great! Those honeycomb candles are a huge pain. They never rolls thin and the wax cracks...kinda like homemade sushi but harder.
Joy, JUST like sushi, but harder. True. :)
I think this is what she is talking about. Used to plug the pipe in new construction to pressure test. Can then be knocked outhttp://m.homedepot.com/p/Oatey-2-in-Inset-Knockout-Test-Cap-39101/100137732
Ron and Theresa, Thanks!
Yay! And you posted, which is a double yay! And i love you which is a triple yay ;)
Hi Jodi, Raj and I made some in tiny terracotta pots some years ago. They look so pretty.
Do you have any or should I send an emergency supply out! We inherited loads when we moved into this house you see (though I ought to go into the Potting Shed to check that we still have small ones). Hope you're well?
much love xx
Simmy! How are you? I'm fine! Thanks for the offer of the pots. I do have some, and that would be a great idea. I'm really keen to try tapers because I have so many candle holders. :) Please give everyone our love. xox
I always pictured honey processing as being so messy, like taking over a whole room. As my men are highly allergic to bee stings we won't be doing this but I love seeing how you do it. It must be so worth it. What is your favorite bread to smear it on?
Oh, and you asked me if my Pat Conroy was the same one as author of Water is Wide, and yes, he is! It was through his cookbook that I became a big fan. His food essays are all through the cookbook making it a delight to read.
Your creativity always makes me smile. You do it! Some think about maybe someday trying something. . . but seeing your endeavors makes me really, really wish you were my neighbor because I'd always be inspired. At least I can see you here:)
I've used beeswax to make Christmas ornaments and gifts from cookie molds. Never made candles. I see the ta per molds are very expensive on ebay.....But some pillar molds are not, though they use too much wax!
I love the smell of beeswax. There is something wonderful about it.
Of COURSE you've made the rolled honeycomb candles before ;)
When you make your new batch of candles you need to show us!
You have a very creative family, Jodi! I love your son's labels. That looks like a lot of work, but it must be a very satisfying project.
Hi Jodi, since I wasn't able to reply to your comment by email, I just had to come back to say your comment was perfect! I loved it.
jodi! hope you are well - i miss you so!
Vicki! I've missed you!
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