How to make candles out of pine resin

WRITTEN BY JON

Making candles out of pine resin is a fun and easy way to create natural, eco-friendly candles that have a lovely pine scent. Pine resin, also known as pitch, is the sap that is excreted by pine trees when they are injured. It is a natural adhesive and has been used for centuries as a sealant and waterproofing agent. Pine resin candles are not only easy to make but also have a beautiful, warm and natural scent that will remind you of the forest.

To make pine resin candles, you will need the following materials:

Pine resin

Beeswax

Wicks

Double boiler

Glass jars or tins

Scissors

Parchment paper

The first step in making pine resin candles is to collect the resin. The best time to collect resin is during the warmer months, when the sap is flowing freely. Look for resin that is sticky and amber-colored. Avoid collecting resin that is black or dark brown, as this indicates that it is old and may not burn well.

Once you have collected enough resin, melt it in a double boiler. The double boiler method is the safest way to melt the resin as it prevents the resin from overheating and catching fire. As the resin melts, be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Next, add beeswax to the melted resin. The ratio of resin to beeswax will depend on your preference, but a good starting point is 1 part resin to 2 parts beeswax. The beeswax will help to thicken the candle and make it burn longer. Stir the mixture until the beeswax is fully melted and combined with the resin.

Now it's time to prepare the wicks. Cut the wicks to the desired length of your candle and tie one end of the wick to a pencil or chopstick. This will be used to hold the wick in place while the candle sets.

Take a glass jar or tin and place a piece of parchment paper on the bottom. This will catch any drips that may occur as the candle sets. Then, place the wick in the center of the jar or tin and pour the melted mixture of resin and beeswax into the container, being careful not to disturb the wick. Once the candle has cooled and set, it can be trimmed to the desired size and is ready to use.

One of the benefits of using pine resin candles is that it is a natural and sustainable alternative to traditional paraffin candles. Additionally, the pine scent is not only pleasant but also has therapeutic benefits. The aroma of pine can help to boost the immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve air quality.

Pine resin candles can also be customized by adding essential oils to the mixture. Some popular essential oils to add include peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon. Simply add a few drops of essential oil to the melted resin and beeswax mixture before pouring it into the container.

Another fun way to customize your pine resin candles is by adding natural decorations such as pine cones or small branches. These can be added to the candle before pouring the mixture, and will give the candle a rustic and natural look.

Lastly, pine resin candles make great gifts for friends and family. They are easy to make and customizable, and the recipient will appreciate the natural and eco-friendly aspect of the candle. They can be packaged in small glass jars or tins, and decorated with twine or ribbon for a rustic touch.

In conclusion, making candles out of pine resin is a fun and easy way to create natural, eco-friendly candles that have a lovely pine scent. With just a few simple materials, you can create beautiful candles that are not only pleasant to look at, but also have therapeutic benefits. Whether you're looking for a unique homemade gift or just want to try something new, pine resin candles are a fun and easy project that anyone can enjoy. Remember to always use caution when working with hot wax, and have fun experimenting with different scents and decorations to create unique and personalized candles.