Pioneer Day / Safe Candle Dipping
Safe Candle Dipping
Older children dip wicks into warm wax repeatedly to build up old-fashioned candles. An educator-run heritage activity with strict safety steps.
How to run it
- Educator melts wax in a heat-controlled melter or double boiler set up at a separate table.
- Children tie wicks to a stick or washer.
- Children dip, lift and let cool in turn, one at a time.
- Repeat until candles are thick, then hang to cool.
You will need
- wax
- wicks
- tall heat-controlled wax melter or double boiler
- thermometer
- cold water bucket
Make it easier or harderYounger children can roll beeswax sheets instead of dipping; older children can add colour layers.
SafetyHot wax burns: keep wax at a controlled temperature, one child dipping at a time with an educator, no open flame, and send candles home unlit.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4, Outcome 2Children learn about life in the past through a hands-on traditional craft.
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