Tyler Brooks
Infused candles are a fun and easy DIY project. They can be made with essential oils, dried herbs, or both. Common herbs used for candle-making include lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and mint. Soy wax, beeswax, and paraffin wax are popular wax options. To make infused candles, melt the wax, add the desired amount of essential oils or herbs, and pour the mixture into a mould. The type of wick used depends on the size of the candle. Once the candle has been made, it should be allowed to fully set and harden before lighting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Soy wax, beeswax, paraffin wax |
| Molds | Metal, plastic, rubber, containers |
| Wicks | Natural hemp-based, flat-braided cotton |
| Scent | Essential oils, fragrance oils, herbs, flowers |
| Color | Dye blocks, cakes, chips, flakes, liquids, crayons |
| Temperature | 170°-190°F for paraffin wax |
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What You'll Learn
Using essential oils
Essential oils are a natural alternative to synthetic fragrances, promoting a healthier lifestyle while enhancing your environment. They are oils extracted from raw plants by means of steam distillation or cold pressing.
When creating homemade scented candles, it is important to select herb essential oils with potent, lingering aromas. Unlike subtle floral or wood oils, pungent herbal essential oils infuse candles with fragrances that fully permeate the wax and last through the entire burn. Popular herb oils like rosemary, peppermint, and lavender have bold fragrances perfect for candlemaking. Just a small amount of these concentrated oils provides a striking aroma.
There are two easy methods for making herb-infused soy candles at home: using a double boiler to monitor wax temperatures or the crockpot technique, which melts wax gently. The crockpot method involves filling jars with wax and then placing them in boiling water to melt the wax before adding essential oils. Soy wax is a popular choice for candle-making because it is natural, renewable, and eco-friendly. Soy wax candles can be infused with basil essential oil to create a fresh, natural scent. Beeswax candles are another natural option that can be infused with basil essential oil.
To make candles with essential oils, you will need candle wicks, wax, and essential oils. Make sure the wick is taller than your container. Melt the wax in a pot over low-medium heat, stirring with a wooden device such as a chopstick. Once melted, add 80-102 drops of your chosen essential oil. The amount depends on the type of essential oil and its potency. Tape the wick upright to a horizontal chopstick or pen/pencil, then pour the wax into your container. Let the candle stand until solid (about one hour), then cut the wick to the desired length.
It is important to note that essential oils are highly flammable and can be a safety risk. Fragrance oils are a safer alternative, as they are specifically formulated for candle use.
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Infusing oils into wax
Firstly, it is important to select the right type of wax. Common options include beeswax, which has a pale golden colour and a honey scent, soy wax, which is a natural option, and paraffin wax, which is affordable and sold in bead pellets.
Next, you will need to melt your wax. This can be done in a crockpot or in the microwave at 30-second intervals until fully liquified. If using a crockpot, simply place the wax chips directly into the pot, where they will melt seamlessly.
Once your wax is melted, you can add your chosen oil. Essential oils are extracted from the raw plants and can be added directly to the wax. Fragrance oils, on the other hand, are usually mixed with synthetic oils and can be used to mimic the scents of essential oils. The amount of oil you use will depend on the desired strength of the scent, but remember that too much oil may impact the structure of the wax.
Finally, pour your wax into a mould. You can add dye to the wax to give it colour and use a skewer or pencil to release any air bubbles that form. Allow the wax to cool and harden completely before removing it from the mould.
By infusing oils into wax, you can create beautifully scented candles that fill your space with aroma. This process allows you to customise your candles and choose natural ingredients, making it a fun and rewarding project.
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Choosing the right wax
The type of wax you choose for your infused candle is important, as it will determine the scent, colour, and burn quality of your candle. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right wax:
Type of Wax
There are several types of wax commonly used for candle making, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some options:
- Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural wax that has a pale golden colour and a subtle honey scent. It is known for its long burn times and is often used for rolled and cut candles.
- Soy Wax: Soy wax is made from soybeans and is a natural, renewable, and eco-friendly option. It burns cleanly with little soot and is non-toxic. Soy wax is a popular choice for infused candles as it can be easily infused with essential oils to create fresh, natural scents.
- Paraffin Wax: Paraffin wax is a petroleum-based wax that is affordable and typically sold in bead pellets. It has a high melting point and is suitable for candles with thicker wicks.
Melting Point and Pouring Temperature
Different types of wax have different melting points and optimum pouring temperatures. When choosing a wax, consider the temperature at which it needs to be heated to melt and pour. Some waxes, like paraffin, have a higher melting point, while soy wax usually melts at a lower temperature.
Hardness
The hardness of the wax will affect the texture and appearance of your candle. If you want a harder, more sturdy candle, you can add a hardening agent like stearic acid. However, this is usually more important for dipped tapers than moulded candles.
Scent Compatibility
If you plan to infuse your candle with essential oils or fragrances, consider the compatibility of the wax with the scent. Some waxes, like soy wax, are known to hold scents well. You can also infuse beeswax with oils, but the resulting scent may be more subtle due to the natural honey scent of beeswax.
Colour
The natural colour of the wax will affect the overall appearance of your candle. If you want a specific colour, you can add crayons or wax colour buds to the melted wax to achieve your desired shade. Keep in mind that the colour of the wax may also be influenced by the type of herbs or oils you infuse it with.
When choosing the right wax for your infused candle, consider the type of wax, its melting point and pouring temperature, hardness, scent compatibility, and colour. By selecting the appropriate wax, you can ensure your candle has the desired scent, appearance, and burning qualities.
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Adding herbs and botanicals
When using herbs for candle-making, it is important to thoroughly dry the plant material to prevent mildew. Aromatic herbs, such as lavender, rosemary, and mint, are popular choices due to their fragrance and decorative value. To release their fragrance, herbs can be finely chopped or crushed. One method is to steep the chopped herbs in hot wax for a period of time, allowing the fragrance to incorporate into the wax, which is then strained before making the candle. Alternatively, the herbs can be added to the candle as it is poured, creating a decorative element, especially if colourful flower petals are included. However, it is important to ensure that the herbs are not too close to the wick to avoid fire hazards.
Another option is to create a pillar candle with a larger wick that burns only the outer layer, leaving the centre, which contains the botanicals, intact. This method ensures that the flame does not come into contact with the herbs or botanicals.
In addition to their decorative and aromatic qualities, herbs and botanicals can also provide health benefits. For example, lavender is known for its calming properties and can help relieve anxiety and improve sleep. Similarly, rosemary can enhance focus and memory while also providing pain relief.
When choosing herbs and botanicals for candle-making, it is important to consider their scent, visual appeal, and potential health benefits. By infusing candles with herbs and botanicals, you can create a unique, natural product that enhances the ambiance of any space.
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Shaping candles with moulds
Choosing the Right Wax
The type of wax you choose will impact the final result of your candle. Common choices include soy wax, beeswax, palm wax, and paraffin wax. Soy wax is a popular option for moulded candles, while rapeseed wax is ideal for creating small, detailed creations. If you want to make coloured candles, palm wax is recommended. Consider the melting point and hardness of the wax, as well as its ability to retain its form during burning.
Preparing the Mould
Before pouring wax into your mould, it is crucial to prepare it properly. Lightly coat the interior surface of the mould with a thin layer of oil. This will ensure that your finished candle can be easily removed without damage. If your mould has a removable base, remove it before oiling to avoid any mess. You can use a spray oil or a soft brush to evenly apply the oil, covering all surfaces.
Adding Colour and Fragrance
If you want to add colour to your candle, you can use liquid dye or dry dye chips. Dry dye chips offer more control over the intensity of the colour. Add the dye gradually to the melted wax, stirring constantly. You can also infuse your candle with fragrance oils to add a delightful sensory dimension. Fragrance oils are more cost-effective than essential oils for candle-making and offer a wider variety of scents.
Inserting the Wick
The wick is essential to the performance of your candle. For PVC moulds, cut the end of the wick at an angle and slide it through the pre-drilled hole, leaving a small overhang at both ends. Use blu-tack to cover the wick hole to prevent leakage. For silicone moulds, use a wicking needle to thread the wick through the centre. Ensure the wick is secure, centred, and straight to achieve an even burn.
Pouring the Wax
Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl on top of a pot filled with a few inches of water. Heat the water to a gentle simmer and melt your wax to a temperature of about 80°C/176°F. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer, especially when working with delicate waxes. Once your wax is melted and coloured, slowly pour it into your prepared mould.
Final Steps
Once the wax has set, gently remove the candle from the mould. You may need to put the mould in the freezer for a few minutes to help release the candle. Trim the wick to the desired length, and your candle is now ready to be enjoyed!
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Frequently asked questions
Infused candles can fill your space with an invigorating aroma and can be a wonderful alternative to chemical air fresheners. They can also be a great way to add a fresh, natural scent to your home.
You will need candle wax, wicks, a heat source, a container, and the herbs or essential oils of your choice. You may also want to use a candy or regular thermometer to monitor the temperature of the wax.
Aromatic herbs, like rosemary, lavender, and chamomile, are popular choices for fragrance and design. You can also use herbs that evoke emotion, such as mint or lemon verbena.
Popular herb essential oils include rosemary, peppermint, lavender, basil, grapefruit, and eucalyptus. These oils have bold fragrances that are perfect for candle-making.
