Ben Carter
Candles can be embellished by embedding items inside them or adding decorations on top. Embeddable items include wax chunks, shells, marbles, and flowers. Non-flammable items are best to avoid combustion risks. Objects can be added to gel candles or candles made from paraffin wax. Wax embeds are a popular choice for their safety and creative flexibility. Objects can be added to the sides of candles by cutting a hole in the wax and remelting it around the object. Alternatively, a core candle can be made with the object on the outside, which is then placed inside a larger mould and filled with wax. Candles can also be decorated by printing custom words or graphics onto tissue paper, which is then fused onto the candle using a heat gun.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Embedments | Shells, wax chunks, dried flowers, spices, marbles, stones, glitter, dried botanicals, wood, herbs, etc. |
| Embedment Type | Wax embeds are the safest option |
| Embedment Process | Make a core candle, place it in a larger mould, fill the perimeter with items, and pour in the wax |
| Printing | Printing custom words or graphics on candles is possible using tissue paper, wax paper, and a heat gun |
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What You'll Learn
Embed objects like shells, marbles, or dried flowers
Embedding objects like shells, marbles, or dried flowers in candles is a fun and creative way to elevate your candle-making skills. Here are some detailed instructions to help you get started:
Choosing the Right Objects:
Select non-flammable items such as shells, marbles, or dried flowers. Avoid anything combustible as it can be dangerous. Even when using non-flammable items, be mindful that some materials like stones could potentially shatter or crack when exposed to high temperatures.
Preparing the Objects:
Clean your chosen embedments to ensure they are free of any dirt or impurities. If you're using heavier objects like marbles, you may need to use fast-setting epoxy glue to secure them in place. Apply a small amount of glue to the bottom of the object and press it into the bottom of your container.
Embedding Techniques:
There are two common techniques for embedding objects:
- The Gel Candle Technique: This method involves adding your embedments first. Use glue if necessary, then pour your gel wax. For gel candles, you can also place your embedments at the bottom of the container before pouring the wax.
- The Core Candle Technique: Create a smaller candle with your chosen wick size. Place this core candle into a larger mold and fill the surrounding space with your chosen embedments. Then, pour the wax into the mold to secure the objects in place. This method works well with dried flowers, spices, or other flammable materials because the wick shouldn't extend to the objects.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid placing objects too close to the wick, as it may cause the wick to extinguish.
- If you want to avoid bubbles, consider warming your container before pouring the wax, and pour slowly.
- If you're using a gel candle, be mindful that dried sea life, like starfish, should not be used.
- When embedding objects in a container candle, you can use glue to place items at various heights.
Remember to always exercise caution and use your best judgment when choosing embedments. Enjoy the creative process of crafting your unique candles!
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Add wax embeds like hearts or flowers
Adding wax embeds like hearts or flowers to your candles is a safe and creative way to elevate your candle-making skills. You can purchase pre-made wax embeds or make your own using silicone moulds. If you choose to make your own, here are some steps to follow:
First, decide on the type of wax you want to use. Common options include paraffin wax, gel wax, or soy wax. Each type of wax has its own unique properties and melting points, so be sure to do your research before making a decision.
Next, choose your silicone mould. You can find moulds in various shapes, such as hearts or flowers, online or in craft stores. Place your mould on a scale and tare the weight to determine how much wax you will need. Add your chosen wax to a pouring pitcher and weigh out the appropriate amount based on your mould's capacity.
Now, it's time to melt the wax. This can be done using a double boiler or a hot plate. Once your wax is melted, carefully pour it into your silicone mould until the cavity is filled. Allow the wax to cool and harden before removing it from the mould.
You can add your finished wax embeds to your candles in a few different ways. One method is to partially melt your candle and create a hole, as described earlier. Place your wax embed inside and re-melt the wax to fill the hole, sealing your embed within the candle. Another method is to create a core candle, place it inside a larger mould, and fill the perimeter with your wax embeds. Finally, pour your wax into the mould around the core candle.
Remember to use non-flammable and safe materials for your wax embeds to avoid any potential fire hazards. With these tips and techniques, you can create beautiful and unique candles with wax embeds.
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Print custom words or images
Printing custom words or images on candles is a great way to personalise them and turn them into thoughtful gifts or unique pieces of home decor. You can add a favourite sentiment, a graphic, a seasonal greeting, or a personalised message with an anniversary or wedding date.
To print custom words or images on a candle, you will need a plain white candle, tissue paper, a printer, painter's tape, and a heat gun. First, make or choose the graphic or words you want to print. If you are using a graphic, download and print it to ensure it is the correct size and orientation for your candle. Cut a rectangular piece of tissue paper with a one-inch margin around your image or words. Place the tissue paper on the printer tray with the shiny side facing down, and secure it with painter's tape. Print your graphic or words onto the tissue paper, using the same settings as your test print.
Once you have printed your graphic or words, trim the tissue paper around the image, rounding the corners. Using a heat gun, carefully apply heat to the candle, softening the wax. Press the tissue paper onto the softened wax, ensuring that it adheres smoothly and evenly. You can use a heat gun to soften the wax and help blend the tissue paper into the candle, creating a seamless finish.
There are also online platforms, such as Etsy, that offer personalised candles with custom words or images. You can choose from various options, including different scents, sizes, and colours. Many sellers on Etsy provide made-to-order items, allowing you to add your own personal touches. Additionally, independent brands like ALBY & STONE offer custom candles with your own words, and they have received positive reviews for their product quality, fragrances, and packaging.
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Use decorative toppings like glitter or mica
Adding toppings like glitter or mica powder is a great way to decorate your candles and make them stand out. However, it's important to note that while glitter and mica powder are safe to use on wax melts, they can pose a fire risk when used on candles. This is because the fine particles can be drawn up the wick, clogging it and preventing the candle from burning properly. Therefore, it is recommended to use these toppings only on wax melts to avoid any potential safety hazards.
If you decide to use glitter or mica powder on your wax melts, there are a few ways to do so. One method is to sprinkle the glitter or powder into your wax melt moulds or clamshells before pouring the wax. This will create a colourful array of light-catching glitter on the tops of your wax melts. You can also mix the glitter or mica powder directly into the wax before pouring it into your moulds. This will give your wax melts an all-over shimmery effect.
When choosing glitter or mica powder, there are a variety of colours and sizes available. You can even mix different colours of glitter to create a unique look. It's important to use a proper wax-safe glitter or mica powder, rather than a water-based or food dye. Additionally, some sources recommend using wooden wicks instead of cotton wicks to avoid the powder sticking to them.
While glitter and mica powder can add a beautiful touch to your wax melts, it's important to use them safely and avoid using them on candles with open flames. By following these tips, you can create stunning and safe wax melts to enjoy or even sell to customers.
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Add dried botanicals like flower petals or herbs
Adding dried flowers, herbs, and other botanicals to candles is a great way to create a natural, decorative look. However, it's important to ensure that any botanicals added are thoroughly dried to prevent mildew and to avoid moisture being retained, which can cause issues when surrounded by wax.
When adding dried flowers, it's best to use smaller petals and pieces, breaking up larger flowers into smaller parts. This also helps to avoid clogging the wick, as does keeping the flowers at least half an inch away from it. One way to do this is to place the flowers or herbs at the sides of the candle, away from the centre of the wick. You can also use a wider container, which provides more space between the petals and the wick.
To add dried flowers to your candle, first, measure and melt your wax, adding any essential oils after it has slightly cooled. Secure your wick to the bottom of your container, keeping it upright with clothespins or chopsticks. Next, pour the wax into your container, and sprinkle in the dried flowers and/or herbs. Finally, let the wax harden, and enjoy your candle!
Some popular choices of dried herbs for candles include lavender, which is known for its calming and anxiety-reducing properties, and mint, which provides a fresh, minty fragrance. Chamomile is another option, adding both aroma and decorative value with its daisy-like flowers. Lemon verbena is a further choice, releasing a fresh citrus scent when its leaves are touched.
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Frequently asked questions
Non-flammable items such as wax embeds, rocks, and gemstones are safe to add to candles. You can also add dried flowers, spices, and glitter, but these are flammable so be cautious.
If you want to add items to the inside of a candle, you can make a core candle with your chosen item inside, then place it into a larger mould and fill the perimeter with your chosen items before pouring in the wax.
First, make and print your graphic, then cut a rectangular piece of tissue paper with a one-inch margin around the image. Attach the tissue paper to a piece of copy paper with the shiny side down, then print your graphic onto the tissue paper. Trim the graphic with rounded corners, then position it onto your candle. Use a heat gun to fuse the image onto the candle, then gently pull off the excess tissue paper.
Yes, but be aware that plastic glitter may smell bad when burned, and you may need to check with your insurance provider if you plan to sell candles made with glitter.
Yes, but dried flowers are flammable, so be cautious.
