Super Eco

Photo credit: krayker, SXC

Beeswax candles are eco-friendly—a non-toxic alternative to toxic paraffin candles. They emit a warm golden glow and smell great! And they're surprisingly easy to make. Here's the buzz on making candles two ways:

Rolled beeswax candles

This is a great project for kids, and they make great gifts! Start with honeycombed sheets of beeswax and cotton wick (this kit comes with everything you need and will make 6 candles). Cut a length of wick to match one side of the beeswax sheet (plus abut 3/4 inch for lighting) and lay along one edge. Roll up the sheet, slowly and carefully (kids tend to squish this a bit) until you have a candle about an inch thick. Cut away excess with a sharp knife; press gently along edge to seal. Trim the end that will become the bottom so your candle will stand upright—and you are finished! Photos here.

Dipped beeswax candles

Kids can also do this one, depending on how you feel about hot wax being flung about. Make friends with a bunch of bees to obtain wax in quantity, or do a search on raw unfiltered beeswax. 2.5 pounds is a good amount to start with and will make several candles. Cotton candle wicking is inexpensive and easily available (be sure buy the kind without a metal core). Hemp cored wicking is another eco-friendly choice.

You'll also need a tall narrow can or glass jar that can permanently hold wax. Detailed instructions for dipping (which essentially involves melting the wax in the can and then repeatedly dipping a length of wick into it, letting it cool a bit in between dips), can be found here. Also here. And here.

Feeling stung? You can always cheat and buy your candles instead. We won't tell.