How to Make Tallow Candles with Beef Tallow
A easy DIY recipe that takes 1 hour + overnight set. Make your own natural tallow candles at home.
Why Make Tallow Candles with Tallow?
🧈 Ingredients
- beef tallow
- cotton wick
- essential oils (optional)
🔧 Equipment
- double boiler
- candle containers or molds
- wick centering device
- thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare containers by securing wicks to center bottom with hot glue or wick stickers
Melt beef tallow in double boiler to 170-180°F
Optional: add 10% beeswax for harder candle
Remove from heat and let cool to 140°F
Add essential oils if desired (1 oz per pound of tallow)
Slowly pour into prepared containers, holding wick upright
Use wick centering device or pencil across top to keep wick centered
Let cool overnight without disturbing
Trim wick to 1/4 inch before first burn
💡 Pro Tips
- ✅ Rendered leaf fat makes the whitest, least smelly candles
- ✅ Pour at lower temperature to prevent sinkholes
- ✅ First burn should melt entire top surface to prevent tunneling
- ✅ Use cotton or hemp wicks sized for container diameter
Recipe Variations
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade tallow tallow candles last?
Properly made tallow tallow candles has a shelf life of indefinite. Store in a cool, dark place for best results.
Is it difficult to make tallow candles with tallow?
This recipe is rated easy and takes approximately 1 hour + overnight set. Perfect for beginners!
What are the benefits of using tallow for tallow candles?
clean burning. no synthetic chemicals. bright flame. historical authenticity. uses kitchen scraps.