3 Examples of How to Make Beeswax Wraps

Learn how to create beeswax wraps as an eco-friendly substitute for plastic wrap.
By Taylor

Introduction

Beeswax wraps are a fantastic way to reduce plastic waste while keeping your food fresh. These reusable wraps are made from organic cotton infused with beeswax, tree resin, and jojoba oil, providing a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic wrap. In this guide, I’ll walk you through three diverse examples of how to make beeswax wraps at home. Let’s dive in!

Example 1: Basic Beeswax Wrap

This example is perfect for beginners looking to create their first beeswax wrap. You’ll be able to cover bowls or wrap sandwiches in no time!

Start by gathering your materials. You’ll need:

  • 100% cotton fabric (old T-shirts or fabric scraps work great)
  • Beeswax pellets (available online or at craft stores)
  • A baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • An iron

Cut your fabric into squares or rectangles, about 10x10 inches or 12x12 inches, depending on your needs. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the fabric on the parchment paper and sprinkle a generous amount of beeswax pellets over the fabric.

Once the oven is heated, place the baking sheet in for about 5 minutes, or until the beeswax is melted. Remove it carefully and use a brush or spatula to spread the melted wax evenly across the fabric. If you want to add tree resin and jojoba oil for extra flexibility and antibacterial properties, mix them in with the beeswax.

Finally, hang the wrap to cool and harden, and your basic beeswax wrap is ready to use!

Notes: You can experiment with different fabric patterns, but avoid fabrics with synthetic fibers.

Example 2: Decorative Beeswax Wraps

Create beautiful, decorative beeswax wraps that not only serve a practical purpose but also look great in your kitchen!

For this example, you’ll need:

  • Organic cotton fabric with fun patterns (floral, geometric, etc.)
  • Beeswax pellets
  • Pine resin (optional for added stickiness)
  • Jojoba oil (optional for flexibility)
  • Baking sheet, parchment paper, and an iron

Begin by cutting your fabric into various sizes, such as 8x8 inches for snacks or 14x14 inches for larger items. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out the fabric on the parchment and sprinkle beeswax pellets generously over the surface.

If you’re using pine resin and jojoba oil, mix them in with the beeswax before sprinkling. Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 5 to 8 minutes. Once melted, use a clean brush to spread the beeswax mixture evenly.

Let the wraps cool on a rack or hang them up to dry. The patterns will not only make them functional but also a stylish addition to your kitchen!

Variations: Consider using fabric scraps from old clothes for a zero-waste approach. You can also use food-safe dyes to color your beeswax wraps.

Example 3: Large Beeswax Wrap for Food Storage

If you often store larger items like bread or cheese, this example is for you! Large beeswax wraps can handle bigger food items effectively.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Larger pieces of organic cotton fabric (at least 16x16 inches)
  • Beeswax pellets
  • Jojoba oil and pine resin (optional)
  • Baking sheet, parchment paper, and an iron

Cut your fabric into large squares, about 16x16 inches or more, depending on the size you prefer. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment. Once ready, place the fabric on the sheet and sprinkle beeswax pellets generously over the top.

Place the baking sheet in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes until the beeswax is melted. Use a brush to spread the melted mixture thoroughly over the fabric. Allow to cool on a rack or hang them up to dry.

These larger wraps are perfect for wrapping bread loaves or covering a large bowl of salad for a picnic!

Notes: Be mindful of the size of your items. You can always create multiple wraps in varying sizes to accommodate different foods.