Embrace the Autumn Equinox: A Family Tradition of Beeswax Candle Making

As the days grow shorter and the nights draw in, there's a subtle shift in the air – a whisper of change that heralds the arrival of the autumnal equinox. This special time, when day and night stand in perfect balance, is an invitation to slow down, reflect on the past season, and prepare for the cozy embrace of fall and winter. Instead of rushing towards holiday consumerism, let's embrace a simpler, more meaningful tradition: making beeswax candles with our loved ones. This year, create beautiful handmade gifts and natural decor while celebrating the spirit of sustainable living and family traditions. Join us as we learn how to connect with nature and create a slow living ritual perfect for the autumn equinox.

Why Beeswax Candles?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about why beeswax candles are the perfect choice for celebrating the autumn equinox. Unlike paraffin candles, which are derived from petroleum, beeswax is a natural, renewable resource. Beeswax candles burn cleaner, longer, and brighter, emitting a warm, honey-scented glow that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. They also purify the air by releasing negative ions, making them a healthy and environmentally friendly option for your home. Plus, the warm amber tones of pure beeswax add a touch of rustic elegance to any space, making them perfect autumnal decor.

What You’ll Need: A Beeswax Candle Making Supplies List

Here's what you'll need to embark on your DIY candles adventure:

• Beeswax: You can find beeswax in various forms – blocks, pellets, or sheets. For beginners, pellets are easiest to work with. Aim for pure beeswax for the best results.
• Wicks: Choose the right wick size based on the diameter of your candle. A wick that's too small will drown in the wax, while a wick that's too large will create a smoky flame. Consult a wick size chart for guidance.
• Double Boiler or Heat-Safe Bowl and Pot: For safely melting the beeswax.
• Thermometer: To monitor the beeswax temperature.
• Containers: Jars, tins, or molds – get creative! Make sure they are heat-safe.
• Optional: Essential oils for scenting, natural dyes for coloring (beeswax already has a beautiful natural color, though!), dried flowers, herbs, or crystals for embellishment.
• Pencil or Skewer: For centering the wick.
• Glue dots or hot glue gun: To secure the wick.
• Scissors: For trimming the wick.

Safety First!

Working with hot wax requires caution. Always supervise children and follow these safety precautions:

• Never leave melting beeswax unattended.
• Use a double boiler or heat-safe bowl and pot to prevent scorching the wax.
• Monitor the temperature of the beeswax carefully.
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby in case of a wax fire. (Water will splatter the hot wax.)

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Autumn Equinox Beeswax Candles

Now, let's get our hands busy and create some magic! This natural beeswax candle making tutorial is designed for beginners, so don't worry if you've never made candles before.

Step 1: Prepare Your Containers.

Clean and dry your chosen containers thoroughly. Attach a wick to the bottom of each container using a glue dot or a small dab of hot glue. This will keep the wick centered during the pouring process.

Step 2: Melt the Beeswax.

Fill the bottom pot of your double boiler with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the beeswax in the top bowl or pot. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax is completely melted. Use a thermometer to ensure the beeswax doesn't exceed 185°F (85°C). Overheating can damage the wax.

Step 3: Add Scent (Optional).

If you're adding essential oils, do so once the beeswax is fully melted and removed from the heat. A good starting point is about 1 ounce of essential oil per pound of beeswax, but adjust to your preference. Stir gently to combine. Popular autumnal scents include cinnamon, clove, orange, pine, and vanilla.

Step 4: Pour the Wax.

Carefully pour the melted beeswax into your prepared containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

Step 5: Center the Wick.

Use a pencil or skewer to center the wick while the wax cools. You can also use wick centering devices, which are available at most craft stores.

Step 6: Let the Candles Cool.

Allow the candles to cool completely, undisturbed, for several hours or overnight. This will prevent cracking and ensure a smooth surface.

Step 7: Trim the Wick.

Once the candles are completely cool, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.

Tips and Variations for Personalizing Your Candles

• Natural Dyes: Experiment with natural dyes like beetroot powder (for pink), turmeric (for yellow), or spirulina powder (for green). Add a small amount of dye to the melted beeswax and stir well.
• Dried Flowers and Herbs: Add dried flowers, herbs, or spices to the bottom of your containers before pouring the wax for a beautiful and fragrant touch.
• Crystals: Embed small crystals in the wax for added energy and intention.
• Honeycomb Sheets: Roll beeswax honeycomb sheets around a wick for a quick and easy candle.
• Layered Candles: Pour different colored or scented layers of beeswax for a visually stunning effect.

Celebrating the Equinox with Intention

As you light your handmade candles this autumn equinox, take a moment to reflect on the past season and set intentions for the coming months. Gather your family, share stories, and enjoy the warmth and glow of your creations. Let the gentle scent of beeswax and the flickering candlelight remind you of the simple joys in life and the importance of connecting with nature and loved ones. Embracing these simple, meaningful celebrations helps us move away from consumerism and towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.

The autumnal equinox is a beautiful time to pause, appreciate the present, and embrace the changing seasons. By creating our own natural decor and handmade gifts, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also create lasting memories with our families. This year, let's celebrate the autumn equinox with the warm glow of beeswax candles, a symbol of sustainable living, family traditions, and the beauty of a slow living lifestyle.