Beeswax Alchemy: How to Make Your Own Soap, Candles, Balms, Creams, and Salves from the Hive [Paperback]

Featuring over 40 DIY projects that illustrate how to transform one of the world’s most natural ingredients into tangible creations,Beeswax Alchemyis the perfect amalgamation of recipe craft book and beekeepers’ guide.

Considered the miracle of the beehive and used by humans for 8,000 years, beeswax remains a vital ingredient to society and is still used as the foundation for many household products in the twenty-first century. Learn from apiarist and entrepreneur Petra Ahnert about thehistory of beeswax, as well as tips and techniques onhow to mold it into beautiful, reusable creations.
 
An introduction details the different ways in which beeswax has been used throughout history, as well as the products that contain it today. You’ll also find an explanation of the different types of beeswax, as well asinsider tips on working with beeswax, followed bystep-by-step instructionsfor makingcandles,balms,salves,creams,scrubs,soaps,ornaments,art, andmoreout of beeswax (either your own or store-bought). Color photos illustrate the processes and show finished results throughout. Among the useful and beautiful things you’ll learn to make out of beeswax:

• Hand-Dipped Birthday Candles
• Lip Balm with Cocoa Butter
• Rosebud Salve
• Solid Natural Perfumes
• Honey, Oats, and Beeswax Soap
• Beeswax Luminaries

Whether you are an expert beekeeper or experimental crafter,Beeswax Alchemyis the best guide for anyone aspiring to make wellness-boosting treasures to keep or gift to friends and family.

Petra Ahnertis the creative force behind Beehive Alchemy (beehivealchemy.com), an artisan soap, body care, and home goods business. After a serendipitous meeting with a beekeeper at the library in 2002, Petra soon had a couple hives of her own and extra honey to sellC"