How to Make Incense From Scratch
Welcome to our guide on how to make incense from scratch, inspired by the traditions and techniques we share in our Balinese Incense Making Workshop! Crafting your own incense is a rewarding sensory experience that connects you with ancient practices and allows you to personalize your aromatic environment.
Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:
What You'll Need:
Makko Powder: This is a combustible, odorless powder that acts as a base and helps your incense burn smoothly.
Water: To bind the ingredients.
Essential Oils: Choose your favorite scents! In our workshops, we love using traditional Balinese oils like frangipani, sandalwood, and clove for their unique aromatic properties. We also emphasize using organic oils.
(Optional but Recommended) Natural Binders & Enhancers: Ingredients like guar gum or other natural resins.
Mixing Bowl and Utensils: For blending your ingredients.
Incense Sticks (e.g., thin bamboo skewers): If you are making stick incense.
The Process:
Blending the Base: Start by mixing the makko powder with water. If you are using additional binders like guar gum or resins, incorporate them into the dry makko powder before adding water. The goal is to create a pliable dough-like consistency – not too sticky and not too dry.
Adding Essential Oils: Once you have your base, it's time to add your chosen essential oils. The amount will depend on the strength of the oils and your personal preference. Start with a few drops and add more until you achieve your desired fragrance. Mix thoroughly to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
Hand-Rolling the Incense Sticks: Take a small amount of your scented dough and carefully hand-roll it thinly and evenly around an incense stick (like a bamboo skewer). Apply gentle, consistent pressure to ensure the dough adheres well and is smooth.
Drying Process: After rolling, the incense sticks need to dry completely. This is a crucial step to ensure they burn properly. Place your incense sticks upright in a holder or lay them flat on a drying rack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The drying time will vary depending on humidity and the thickness of your incense, but it typically takes several days.
Enjoy Your Handmade Incense: Once fully dried, your homemade incense sticks are ready to be used! You can use them for aromatherapy, meditation, or simply to create a pleasant ambiance in your home.
A Note on Ingredients:
You can make incense with makko powder alone, much like you can make a basic bread with just all-purpose flour. However, for a superior result – think artisan bread made with specialized bread flour – it's better to enhance your incense mixture. Adding a small amount of natural binders like guar gum, or other plant-based resins, can significantly improve your incense. These additions help the incense absorb and retain more aroma, dry more effectively, burn more consistently, and can contribute to a smoother, more refined smoke.
Cultural Context:
In Bali, incense plays a significant role in Hindu ceremonies and daily offerings. The ingredients used often carry symbolic meaning and cultural relevance. By making your own incense, you're not just creating a beautiful aroma, but also connecting with a rich cultural tradition.
Ever wondered what makes some incense more expensive or higher quality than others? Curious about the nuances of different resins, woods, and aromatic blending? Want to perfect the craft and dive deeper into the art of incense making with guidance from experienced artisans?
Book our Balinese Incense Making Workshop at Paint & Sip Ubud Art Workshop & Studio and transform your curiosity into skill! You'll learn traditional techniques, work with authentic Balinese ingredients, and create your own beautiful incense to take home.