I'm Hannah, a maker based in Warrandyte on Wurundjeri Country. I’ve been lucky enough to explore a range of creative mediums over the years, including photography, textile art, woodwork and, most recently, candle making.
A bit about my process
I source all of my beeswax from Victorian-based apiaries and use additive-free cotton wicks.
I use two candle-making techniques.
The first involves pouring wax into handmade silicone moulds. Silicone gives me the freedom to create candles in unique shapes.
Secondly, I use an age-old candle-dipping technique. By repeatedly dipping a wick into molten beeswax, layer by layer, the candle gradually takes shape. It’s a slow process that brings an imperfect charm to each candle.
Why Beeswax?
People love beeswax for many reasons including:
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Natural scent – Beeswax possesses a subtle honey-like scent.
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Biodegradable – you can safely add undyed beeswax to your compost.
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Efficiency – Beeswax has the ability to burn for extended periods of time without the use of additives. Plus, many beeswax candles (including my straight tapers and strawberry candles) drip little wax when burning, if at all.
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Versatility – You might enjoy reusing your leftover beeswax for your own creations – think lip balm or wood polish (not recommended for dyed wax).
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Beeswax can be sourced locally and doesn't undergo energy-intensive processing in the same way many other waxes do.
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Unlike paraffin wax, beeswax isn't tied to the fossil fuel industry. Paraffin wax (also known as mineral wax) is used in a majority of candles sold today. Candles marketed as soy or other types of wax are often blended with paraffin.