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

Featuring over 40 DIY projects that illustrate how to transform one of the world’s most natural ingredients into tangible creations, Beeswax Alchemy is 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 the history of beeswax, as well as tips and techniques on how 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 as insider tips on working with beeswax, followed by step-by-step instructions for making candles, balms, salves, creams, scrubs, soaps, ornaments, art, and more out 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 Alchemy is the best guide for anyone aspiring to make wellness-boosting treasures to keep or gift to friends and family.

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My first quilting sewing machine was a $50 Black Friday special that literally smoked when I tried to quilt a twin-size top. (RIP, little guy.) After testing 23 machines (and surviving two more meltdowns), I finally cracked the code to finding the perfect beginner quilting machine—without wasting money on features you don’t need yet.

Here’s everything I wish I’d known, including:
The 3 must-have features for beginner quilters (spoiler: automatic needle threader = lifesaver)
5 machines under $500 that actually handle thick quilts
The truth about “quilting mode” (and when it matters)

What Makes a Sewing Machine “Good for Quilting”?

Non-Negotiables for Beginners

Throat Space: At least 7 inches (so your quilt doesn’t get stuck)
Walking Foot Included: Prevents fabric layers from shifting
Drop Feed Dogs: For free-motion quilting later

Nice-to-Have Perks

Speed Control: Because quilting a king-size in “rabbit mode” = regrets
Needle Up/Down: Crucial for precise pivots at corners
LED Lighting: Spotting seams under dim light = no more “mystery stitches”

2. The Best Machines Under $500 (Tested on Real Quilts)

1. Brother PQ1500SL ($479)

Why Beginners Love It:
- 16-inch throat space (fits bulky quilts)
- Straight stitch only (no confusing dials)
- Industrial motor handles denim + quilt batting
Watch Out: No fancy stitches (but do you really need 200 decorative options?)

2. Janome 3160QDC ($449)

Best For: Quilters who want some embroidery flair
- 60 stitches (great for quilted gifts)
- One-handed needle threader (no squinting!)
- Automatic thread cutter = fewer thread nests

3. Juki TL-2010Q ($499)

The “Grow With You” Pick
- Professional-grade straight stitches
- Knee lifter (hands-free presser foot lifting)
- Heavy-duty but quiet

Pro Tip: Watch for Joann’s 50% off coupons—they work on these!

3. The “Don’t Waste Your Money” List

Overkill for Beginners

$1,000+ Machines: Unless you’re quilting daily, start smaller
Heavy Industrial Models: Your kitchen table will protest

Too Basic

Mini Machines: Can’t handle batting + fabric layers
Vintage Singers: Adorable but often need $200 in tune-ups

4. Your First Quilting Project: Start Here!

Pair your new machine with:

This free “Disappearing 9-Patch” pattern (uses only squares!)
Pre-cut fabric bundles (no scary rotary cutter yet)

My #1 Advice: Practice on placemats first—less pressure than a queen-size masterpiece.