Autumn for us is synonymous with the start of candle season, and these mini pumpkin candles have been the perfect addition to our fall decor. Pumpkins and gourds are a beautiful and sustainable option as a vessel for making candles. After the candles have been burned down, both the pumpkin and any remaining beeswax can be composted (after removing any wick tabs, if you’re using them). We use pure beeswax to make our candles and it is my favorite option because it is a natural, renewable resource. Look for pure beeswax and natural cotton or hemp wicking. I always recommend buying locally first if that is an option for you!

Materials:

– small pumpkins
– pure beeswax
– cotton candle wick
– sustainer tabs (optional)
– a heat-proof container to melt you wax in that you’ve designated for crafting (I use this stainless steel pitcher) and something to place it on top of
– sharp kitchen knife or a round cookie cutter and a rubber mallet

Instructions for making beeswax candles in pumpkins

Step 1: How to melt beeswax using the double boiler method

To melt your beeswax, first place your heat-proof container inside of a larger pot. Place a metal cookie cutter under your container so that it does not sit directly on the bottom of the larger pot. This double boiler set up allows the beeswax to melt slowly and evenly. Fill the larger pot with water so that the bottom of your container is submerged a few inches. Place the beeswax inside of the container along with the thermometer if you are using one. Heat the water and simmer over medium-low heat. You want your beeswax to liquify and reach a temperature between 150°F and 160°F. Make sure that you keep an eye on the wax— pouring at the proper temperature is extremely important to avoid issues such as wax tunneling. If you’re adding essential oils to your wax you may do so now, prior to pouring.

Step 2: How to cut the pumpkins

Prepare your pumpkins and wick while your wax is melting. Use a sharp kitchen knife to carefully cut and remove the top portion of your pumpkins. You can also use a round cookie cutter and a rubber mallet to create a hole at the top. Scoop out the insides of your pumpkins, removing all of the seeds. Set the top aside if you are keeping it or compost it.

Step 3: How to prepare the wick

Cut a length of wick for each pumpkin that is a couple inches longer than the final length that you’ll need. Dip the entire wick into the melted wax, letting the wax saturate the wick for a few minutes. Straighten the wick out and lay on a piece of parchment paper to cool. If you are using wick tabs, attach the bottom of the wick to the holder and secure. If you are not using wick tabs, position the wick in the center by wrapping the end of the wick around a flat-sided pencil or wooden popsicle stick and balancing the pencil across the top of the container. Make sure that the wicks are straight and centered. Repeat for each pumpkin.

Step 4: Pouring the beeswax

Carefully pour the beeswax into the first pumpkin until it reaches your desired height. Straighten the wick immediately if has moved during the process. Let the wax cool and harden while being careful to not disturb it. It may take several hours. Trim the wicks once the beeswax has completely hardened.

You will need to use these candles within the first few days since the pumpkin will degrade quickly. A tip is to store these in the fridge when not in use to extend the time. Let them come to room temp before burning. Always trim candle wicks to approximately 1/8”, just above the surface of the wax before lighting and place on a dish to burn. Never leave a burning candle unattended and children and pets must be supervised at all times when burning candles or when working with hot wax.

Leftover beeswax and cleanup:

I always pour any remaining melted beeswax into a silicone mold to save to use again later. Use a cloth (designated for cleaning wax) to wipe up any remaining wax residue while it is still hot. If you’re using a designated melting pot or pitcher for just wax, you can also just choose to let it solidify inside of the pitcher and then stick it back on the stove to re-melt it at a later time.