A year ago, I decided to try my hand at making hand-dipped beeswax candles. It was a learning experience filled with trial, error, and plenty of wax drips, but the result was something truly special—beautiful, naturally scented candles with a warm golden glow. Now, as I prepare to list them in my Etsy shop, I wanted to share my experience, the lessons I learned, and why these candles are so special.
Why Hand-Dipped Beeswax Candles?
There’s something truly timeless about hand-dipped beeswax candles. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, each one is crafted slowly and intentionally, giving them a unique character. These candles aren’t just beautiful; they’re also eco-friendly, naturally scented, and clean-burning. When you light one, you’re experiencing a piece of tradition, made with care.
My First Attempt at Hand-Dipping
A year ago, I melted my first batch of pure beeswax, carefully prepared my hemp wicks, and started dipping. I was excited but also slightly intimidated—hand-dipping requires a delicate balance of timing, technique, and temperature control. The wax had to be just the right consistency: too hot, and the previous layers would melt away; too cool, and the wax wouldn’t adhere smoothly. Finding that sweet spot took a lot of trial and error.
Each candle required 20-30 dips, with careful pauses in between to allow the wax to cool and build up in even layers. I quickly learned that patience was the most important tool in this process—rushing led to lumpy, uneven candles, while a steady hand and rhythm created a smoother finish. The first few attempts were frustrating, with some wicks bending, some candles coming out too thin, and others ending up completely misshapen. At times, I had to start over entirely.
Adding to the challenge were my ever-curious cats, who seemed fascinated by the process.
Despite the mishaps, each attempt brought improvement. I learned how to dip with a steady motion, how to gauge the perfect wax temperature by sight and feel, and how to manage multiple wicks at once. When I finally reached a point where the candles looked even, smooth, and beautifully golden, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment.
Hanging them up to harden, I stepped back and admired them—beautiful, natural, and filled with character. These weren’t just candles; they were a craft, a labor of love, and something truly special. Each imperfection told a story of learning and persistence, and I knew I was onto something worth pursuing.
Why These Candles Are Worth It
Hand-dipped beeswax candles have a charm that factory-made ones just can’t replicate. Every imperfection, every variation in shape, adds to their beauty. When you buy a candle from my shop, you’re getting something unique—not just a product, but a piece of craftsmanship.
They also bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia, perfect for cozy evenings, special occasions, or thoughtful gifts. Plus, since they’re made from pure beeswax, they have that subtle, natural honey scent that makes any space feel inviting.
Handcrafted with care – my Nag Champa scented beeswax candle, radiating a warm glow and rich, earthy aroma. A little experiment in scent and tradition.
I’ve come a long way since my first attempt, and now I’m excited to add these hand-dipped beeswax candles to my Etsy shop, Crafted by Mhairi. Each candle is made with care, using natural beeswax, and will be available in a range of sizes.
If you love handcrafted, sustainable, and timeless home decor, these are for you! Keep an eye on my shop, and be the first to bring these beautiful candles into your home.
Let’s Stay Connected!
I’d love to hear your thoughts—do you enjoy beeswax candles? What scents and styles do you love? Drop a comment or follow my shop updates for more behind-the-scenes looks at my candle-making journey.💛 Shop: Crafted by Mhairi ☕ Support: Buy Me a Coffee 📷 Instagram: @craftedbymhairi 🌍 Website: www.craftedbymhairi.co.uk🐝✨ Thanks for supporting my craft, and I can’t wait to share these candles with you!