How to make beeswax wraps

You will need:

• 100% cotton material
• sustainably sourced beeswax (pure or cosmetic grade)
• grater
• baking paper
• iron
• scissors

1. Cut the cotton to the desired shape and size and lie it flat on a sheet of baking paper on top of a heat-resistant surface.

2. Grate a thin, even layer of beeswax over the cotton. If you're using beeswax pellets, sprinkle on a thin layer.
Cover the beeswax with another piece of baking paper.

3. Heat an empty iron on a wool setting, or to around 150°C.

4. Gently iron over the top sheet of baking paper to melt the beeswax into the cotton and use it to gently push the wax to the edges. If there are any gaps, sprinkle on a little more wax and melt with the iron.

5. Leave the beeswax wrap to cool then peel it off the paper. Remove any excess wax left on the paper or clinging to the edges of the wrap and use it to make another.

6. Use your newly made beeswax wrap to cover food while it's stored in the fridge. Using the warmth of your hands, press the wrap around the food to mould it into shape. Make sure the food is cool before wrapping.

7. To reuse your wraps, wash them with a mild dish soap and cool water and leave flat or hang to dry.

Make sure what you're wrapping is at room temperature, as beeswax has a low melting point and may get on your food or containers if they're too warm. This also means that beeswax wraps are not suitable for microwave use.

If your wraps start to lose their stickiness or noticeable folds appear, you can refresh them by ironing each wrap between two sheets of baking paper. Let them cool and harden before using again.