Making Incense Cones

To make incense cones, you typically need to mix a few key components:

• Combustible Material: This is the main bulk of the cone that burns. Common materials include charcoal powder, wood powder (like sandalwood or cedar), or makko powder (which also acts as a binder).
• Binder: This holds the powder together when mixed with water and allows it to form a cone shape that stays intact when dry. Makko powder is a traditional binder, but others like gum arabic or tragacanth gum can also be used.
• Water: Used to hydrate the mix and activate the binder.
• Fragrance: This is where your fragrance oil comes in. You can use essential oils or fragrance oils.

General Process:

1. Mix the dry ingredients (combustible material and binder) thoroughly.
2. Gradually add water while mixing until you get a thick, moldable paste.
3. Knead the paste well.
4. Add your fragrance oil and knead again to distribute it evenly.
5. Shape the paste into cones.
6. Let the cones dry completely for several days before burning.

Ratio:

The exact ratio of ingredients, especially the binder and water, depends heavily on the specific materials you use. However, a common starting point for the fragrance oil is typically around 10-20% of the total dry weight of the combustible material and binder combined. You may need to experiment to find the desired scent strength and burning characteristics.

Olibanum (Frankincense) Oil is a traditional and popular fragrance used in incense making.