Candle-making suppliers sell frames to make dipped candles, but a few dipped candles can be made without special equipment.
GENERAL DIRECTIONS
STEP 1: Choose a container for the wax that is tall and thin so that the entire length of the candle can be dipped. Use 24-ply flat-braid wicks for candles up to one-inch in diameter.
STEP 2: Make a double boiler by placing the can in a pot and by placing wooden strips beneath the can to raise it an inch or so from the bottom.
STEP 3: Add wax to the can and add water to the pot. Heat the wax until its temperature is between 155 & 165 degrees F. Place the wick in the wax and allow it to soak for about 5 minutes.
STEP 4: Remove the wick, straighten it and TIE a weight to the end. Dip the wick into the wax and immediately remove it in a smooth motion. The wick should be dipped to the top of the candle each time and allowed a minute (or more) to cool between dips. Continue the dipping process until the candle is a little larger than a pencil. Clip the wick at the base to remove the weight and to flatten the base of the candle. Continue dipping until the candle is the desired diameter. A 3/4” diameter candle will require about 25 dips.
STEP 5: Cut the base of the candle flat and dip it one or two more times to finish it. A small drip of wax should remain on the base. This is attractive and a trademark of hand-dipped candles.
Note from Deb: Be careful that your pot for water is not a lot larger than the beeswax holding can, you don’t want the wax can to be floating around.
