A shallow, plastic dish is ideal. The shorter the incense sticks are, the more quickly they will burn. It’s important to use specialty incense sticks rather than just plain bamboo sticks. Ordinary bamboo sticks will not work.
DGP helps the incense sticks to burn properly and to reduce the release of black smoke. It is safe to use in your home and you can purchase it online. If you don’t use DPG, there will be a strong burning smell when you light the incense. You can use any fragrance or essential oil that you like or a combination of several different oils. Sandalwood is a popular choice for incense sticks.
Don’t tightly pack the incense sticks on the cooling rack as there needs to be room around each one for the air to circulate.
Store the incense sticks in a ziplock bag or a glass jar until they are ready to use. [7] X Research source
Each incense stick will last approximately 1-2 hours depending on the length. If the incense stick doesn’t burn or smolder well, this may be because it is still slightly damp. Let the other incense sticks dry for a longer period of time. [9] X Research source
Try to choose flowers and herbs that dry well and that haven’t been grown with pesticides or chemicals. You can also include cuttings from cedar or pine trees.
Use more or fewer sage leaves as required. Sage is the most traditional and popular ingredient to use in an incense bundle. However, if you do not have sage, it’s fine to make your incense bundle without it. [13] X Research source
This will create a criss-cross formation with the twine.
The wrapped twine at the end of the bundle creates a handle that you can hold as the incense burns.
The amount of time that it will take for the bundle to dry depends on the humidity. [18] X Research source
It is easiest to hold the bundle horizontally rather than vertically as you are lighting it. [20] X Research source To put the incense out, simply snuff it on the heatproof dish. If you use water to stop the incense burning, it will be very difficult to light again.
Make sure that all of your ingredients are fresh. You can use either white sage or garden sage.
Alternatively, you can use an electric grinder rather than a mortar and pestle.
If you used an electric grinder, place the powdered flowers and herbs, red sandalwood powder, and essential oils into a glass bowl. Combine the ingredients with a whisk.
This will help to preserve the scent and color of your incense. [25] X Research source
Alternatively, use a small cauldron rather than a heatproof dish. You can also use salt rather than sand to layer the heatproof dish or cauldron.
