This couldn’t get much easier. If you read our Lotion Bars post, you can see these are the same ingredients, only in different proportions. So no more ingredients to buy. And again, two versions–economy and first class. Everyday Jane and Princess. (Accidentally switch them up and you may not be able to tell the difference.)

Everyday Lip Balm

3 T. vegetable oil
2 T. vegetable shortening
1 T. beeswax

Melt shortening and beeswax in double boiler or small pan in larger pan of barely simmering water. Stir in vegetable oil. If you like you can add 3-5 drops essential oil such as peppermint. Lemon or lime is also a possibility, but use caution because citrus oils may increase sun sensitivity for some people. Pour into mold(s) or tiny dishes or reuse clean, empty lip balm tubes or pots. It is ready to use when cool.

Luxury Lip Balm

3 T. avocado oil
2 T. shea butter
1 T. beeswax
1/2 tsp. calendula extract (optional)
3-5 drops essential oil (optional)

Melt shea butter and beeswax in double boiler (or small pan in larger pan of water) warmed just enough to melt the oil and wax. Stir in avocado oil, essential oil, and calendula extract. Pour into molds. Since shea butter can occasionally go grainy if it is overheated, watch it carefully over the heat and cool it quickly by pouring it into shallow containers in a cool room or by putting it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Ready to go.


The oils and extracts are available through soapmaking suppliers and some health food/nutritional supplement or craft stores.

For containers you can do better than the salt cellar in the picture above. Search “lip balm containers” and you will be on your way to tiny jar cuteness in no time.