I’ve always loved the calming aroma of incense—it instantly transforms any space into a peaceful retreat. However, store-bought incense often contains artificial fragrances and chemicals, which led me to explore how to make incense at home using natural ingredients. And trust me, you'll never return once you try DIY incense!
Making homemade incense is fun and rewarding and allows you to control the ingredients for a natural, non-toxic burn. Whether you want to craft incense sticks, cone incense, or loose incense, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through step-by-step incense making using herbs, resins, and essential oils.
Plus, I’ll share my favourite tools—including my go-to concrete incense burner from Botanical Blueprint—to help you burn your handmade incense safely and beautifully. Ready to create handmade incense that smells amazing and burns perfectly? Let’s get started!
2. Understanding Different Types of Incense
Before diving into how to make incense at home, it’s essential to understand the different types of incense you can create. Each type burns differently and requires a unique preparation method.
Stick Incense Stick incense is the most common and beginner-friendly option. The fragrant mixture is applied to a thin bamboo core or shaped into a stick without a core. It burns evenly and is perfect for meditation, relaxation, or freshening a space.
Cone Incense Handmade incense cones are compact and produce a stronger, more pungent scent than sticks. They require a slightly different mixing technique to maintain their shape while burning slowly and evenly.
Loose Incense (Resin & Herbal Blends) Loose incense consists of dried herbs, resins, and essential oils that are burned on charcoal discs or in specialized incense burners. This method is ideal if you enjoy experimenting with different natural incense blends. Choosing the right type depends on your preference, available tools, and incense-making supplies.
In the next section, we'll cover exactly what you need to start!
3. Essential Ingredients & Tools for DIY Incense
Creating homemade incense requires a few key ingredients and tools. Here’s a simple checklist to help you gather everything before you begin.
1. Base Materials (Burning Agents)
These materials help the incense burn evenly: - Makko Powder – A natural, water-soluble binding agent commonly used in traditional incense. - Wood Powders – Sandalwood, cedarwood, or agarwood for a subtle, earthy aroma. - Resins – Frankincense, myrrh, and copal add depth and smokiness.
2. Natural Binders
If you’re making incense sticks or cones, you’ll need a binding agent to hold the ingredients together: - Makko powder (also works as a base) - Tragacanth gum - Xanthan gum (a vegan-friendly alternative)
3. Essential Oils & Herbs for Scent
For fragrance, you can use a mix of dried herbs and essential oils: - Relaxing scents: Lavender, chamomile, sandalwood - Energising scents: Peppermint, citrus peels, rosemary - Grounding scents: Frankincense, patchouli, cedarwood
4. Tools for Incense Making
Mortar & pestle – For grinding herbs and resins into a fine powder.
Mixing bowl & spoon – To blend the ingredients.
Rolling board or mould – For shaping handmade incense sticks or cones.
Drying rack – Ensures proper airflow while drying your incense.
Once your materials are ready, let’s start making DIY incense sticks!
4. How to Make Stick Incense at Home
Making handmade incense sticks is an easy and enjoyable process. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your natural incense.
Ingredients:
✅ 1/2 cup wood powder (e.g., sandalwood)
✅ 1 tbsp mako powder (or another binding agent)
✅ 1/4 cup warm water
✅ 10-15 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, frankincense)
✅ Bamboo sticks (or make non-core incense sticks)
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Grind the Ingredients - Using a mortar & pestle, grind wood powders, herbs, and resins into a fine texture.
2. Mix the Ingredients - In a bowl, combine the powdered mix with mako powder and water until a dough-like consistency form.
3. Add Essential Oils - Stir in your chosen essential oils for incense to enhance the fragrance.
4. Shape the Sticks - If using bamboo sticks, roll the dough around them evenly. - Shape non-core incense sticks by hand without a bamboo core.
5. Dry the Incense - Place your sticks on a drying rack in a cool, dark place for at least 24-48 hours.
6. Test & Enjoy! - Once dry, light one end of the incense and enjoy your handmade, natural incense.
Tip: Pair your new incense with a concrete incense burner from Botanical Blueprint for a stylish and safe burning experience!
5. How to Make Cone Incense and Bricks at Home
If you prefer a stronger, longer-lasting scent, cone or brick incense is a great option. These compact incense pieces burn slowly and release a rich fragrance, making them perfect for meditation or relaxation.
Ingredients:
½ cup wood powder (sandalwood, cedarwood, or agarwood)
1 tbsp mako powder (acts as a natural binder)
¼ cup warm water
10-15 drops essential oil (frankincense, patchouli, or lavender)
Step-by-Step Process:
Grind and Mix Ingredients
Blend the wood powder, herbs, and makko powder in a bowl.
Slowly add warm water until the mixture forms a dough-like texture.
Add Essential Oils
Stir in your chosen essential oils for incense to enhance the scent.
Shape the Incense Cones
Pinch a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a cone by rolling it between your fingers.
Ensure the base is flat so the cone stands upright.
Dry the Cones
Place them on a tray and dry them in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 days.
Test & Enjoy
Once dry, place the cone on a heat-resistant incense burner, light the tip, and enjoy the aroma.
🔥 Pro Tip: Use a stylish concrete incense burner from Botanical Blueprint to burn your handmade incense cones safely.
6. How to Make Loose Incense (Smudge & Resin-Based Incense)
Loose incense is a simple, flexible way to create aromatic blends without binding agents. It can be burned on charcoal discs, in a ceramic incense burner, or sprinkled onto a fireproof surface.
Ingredients:
Dried herbs (lavender, rosemary, sage, or chamomile)
Resins (frankincense, myrrh, copal)
Essential oils (optional for added fragrance)
Step-by-Step Process:
Grind & Blend Ingredients
Use a mortar & pestle to grind the resins and herbs into small pieces.
Mix them in a bowl to create your unique blend.
Add Essential Oils (Optional)
A few drops of essential oil can intensify the aroma.
Store Properly
Keep your loose incense in an airtight container to preserve its scent.
Burn & Enjoy
Place a small amount on a charcoal disc or use a heat-resistant incense burner.
Light the charcoal and let the incense smoulder for a rich, natural fragrance.
This method is perfect for energy cleansing, meditation, or relaxation without shaping sticks or cones.
7. Choosing the Right Burner for Your Incense
Now that you've made your DIY incense, you'll need a proper incense burner to enjoy it safely and effectively. Here’s a guide to choosing the right one for your needs.
1. Stick Incense Holders
Ideal for handmade incense sticks.
Typically made from wood, metal, or ceramic.
Catches falling ash for easy cleanup.
2. Cone Incense Burners
Designed for incense cones, allowing them to burn slowly.
Some are decorative, featuring smoke waterfalls for a mesmerizing effect.
3. Charcoal & Resin Burners
Best for loose incense and resin-based incense.
Made from ceramic, brass, or stone to withstand high heat.
Great Choice: A concrete incense burner from Botanical Blueprint is a stylish, heat-resistant option for burning sticks, cones, and loose incense safely.
8. Customising Your Incense Blends
One of the best parts of making homemade incense is the ability to create unique blends tailored to your mood and needs. You can craft incense for relaxation, energy, meditation, or purification by experimenting with different herbs, resins, and essential oils.
Best Herbs and Resins for Different Purposes
Relaxation & Stress Relief: Lavender, chamomile, sandalwood, frankincense
Focus & Clarity: Rosemary, peppermint, lemon peel, myrrh
Energy & Upliftment: Citrus peels, cinnamon, patchouli
Spiritual Cleansing & Meditation: White sage, palo santo, frankincense
Experimenting with Scent Combinations
Floral & Earthy: Lavender + Sandalwood + Rose
Refreshing & Energising: Lemon Peel + Rosemary + Peppermint
Warm & Spicy: Cinnamon + Clove + Frankincense
Grounding & Calming: Cedarwood + Myrrh + Chamomile
Try blending small batches and testing them before making a large quantity. Over time, you’ll discover your favourite natural incense recipes!
9. Tips for Properly Drying & Storing Homemade Incense
Once you've crafted your DIY incense, proper drying and storage ensure it burns evenly and retains its fragrance.
Drying Tips for Stick & Cone Incense
Stick Incense: Lay incense sticks on a drying rack in a cool, dark place. Let them dry for at least 24-48 hours.
Cone Incense: Place cones on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to dry for 2-3 days.
🔥 Pro Tip: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause essential oils to evaporate and weaken the scent.
Best Ways to Store Incense
Airtight Glass Jars: Preserve freshness and prevent moisture from affecting the incense.
Paper or Cloth Bags: Allow for slight air circulation, which helps retain fragrance.
Dark, Cool Storage Areas: Keep incense away from heat and humidity for a long-lasting scent.
Proper drying and storage will ensure your handmade incense sticks and cones burn smoothly and maintain their aroma.
10. Safety Tips for Burning Homemade Incense
While natural incense is safer than many store-bought versions, it’s still essential to burn it responsibly.
Incense Burning Safety Guide
✔ Use a Heat-Resistant Incense Burner – Avoid placing incense directly on flammable surfaces. A concrete incense burner from Botanical Blueprint is a great option.
✔ Keep Away from Flammable Objects – Ensure curtains, paper, and furniture are at a safe distance.
✔ Burn in a Well-Ventilated Area – Prevent smoke buildup by opening windows or using incense in a space with airflow.
✔ Never Leave Burning Incense Unattended – Always extinguish it before leaving the room.
✔ Monitor Pets & Children – Keep incense out of reach to prevent accidental burns or ingestion.
By following these precautions, you can safely enjoy the benefits of handmade incense while keeping your space serene and inviting.
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade incense is fun and rewarding, but beginners often make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.
1. Using Too Much Essential Oil
Adding too much essential oil can make your incense challenging to burn or cause an overpowering scent.
Fix: Use only 10-15 drops per batch and blend well into the base ingredients.
2. Not Drying Incense Properly
If incense isn’t fully dried, it won’t burn evenly and may produce too much smoke.
Fix: In a well-ventilated space, let sticks and cones dry for at least 48 hours.
3. Skipping a Binding Agent
Incense sticks and cones may crumble without a proper binder like makko powder.
Fix: Always use a natural binding agent for structure and smooth burning.
4. Incorrect Ingredient Ratios
If there’s too much wood powder or resin, incense may burn too quickly or not at all.
Fix: Experiment with small batches to find the right consistency.
Remembering these tips, you’ll create high-quality, handmade incense that burns evenly and smells amazing.
12. Benefits of Making Your Incense
Why choose DIY incense over store-bought options? Here are the key benefits:
1. 100% Natural & Chemical-Free
Many commercial incense brands use synthetic fragrances and chemicals. Homemade incense is made from pure herbs, resins, and essential oils, making it a healthier, non-toxic option.
2. Cost-Effective & Customisable
Store-bought incense can be expensive, especially for high-quality blends.
With incense-making supplies, you can craft custom incense sticks and cones for a fraction of the cost.
3. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable
Handmade incense reduces packaging waste.
You can use ethically sourced herbs and resins for a more sustainable choice.
4. Creates a Personal Connection
There’s something special about burning incense you made yourself. It enhances meditation, relaxation, and energy cleansing more personally and is also great for gifting!
13. Where to Buy Incense-Making Supplies
To make high-quality handmade incense, you need the right materials. Here’s where you can find incense-making supplies online:
For concrete incense burners, stylish accessories, and more, check out Botanical Blueprint.
2. Local Herbal Shops
Many herbal stores carry dried herbs, resins, and essential oils perfect for incense making.
3. Online Marketplaces
Etsy & Amazon – Great for purchasing makko powder, wood powders, and essential oils.
Specialty Incense Supply Stores – Some online retailers specialise in organic, ethically sourced incense materials.
The right supplies ensure your DIY incense burns beautifully and delivers a high-quality scent.
14. Final Thoughts & Encouragement for Beginners
Making homemade incense is a rewarding and creative process that allows you to enjoy natural, toxin-free aromas tailored to your preferences. Whether you craft incense sticks, cones, or loose blends, the process is simple and enjoyable with the right ingredients and tools.
If you’re starting, don’t be afraid to experiment with different scents and techniques. Over time, you’ll discover your favourite combinations and perfect your craft.
Check out the concrete incense burners at Botanical Blueprint for a stylish way to burn your handmade incense. They’re designed to enhance your incense-burning experience's aesthetics and functionality.
Enjoy the journey of creating your incense—it’s a craft that connects you to nature, tradition, and mindfulness.
15. FAQs: How to Make Incense at Home
1. How long does homemade incense last?
Properly dried and stored DIY incense can last up to a year. Please keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for the best longevity.
2. Can I make incense without a binding agent?
Yes! Loose incense doesn’t require a binder. However, a natural binder like makko powder ensures proper burning for sticks and cones.
3. What are the best essential oils for incense?
Popular choices include lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, myrrh, and patchouli. Each oil adds unique benefits and fragrance to your incense.
4. How do I fix incense that doesn’t burn properly?
If your incense won’t stay lit, it may be too moist or lack a proper fuel source. Try drying it longer or adjusting the wood powder-to-binder ratio.
5. Can I make incense without charcoal?
Yes! Stick and cone incense burn on their own. If you prefer loose incense, use a ceramic or concrete incense burner instead of charcoal.
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