Brooke Martin
Creating your own candle out of crayons is a fun, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly DIY project that allows you to repurpose old or broken crayons into something both functional and decorative. By melting down crayons and combining them with wax or a candle base, you can craft unique, colorful candles that add a personal touch to your space. This simple process requires minimal supplies, such as a double boiler, wick, and mold, making it accessible for beginners and a great activity for families or craft enthusiasts. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also lets you experiment with colors, scents, and shapes to create one-of-a-kind candles tailored to your style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials Needed | Crayons (old or new), candle wick, wick holder or pencil, pot for melting, jar or container for candle, oven or stovetop, knife or crayon peeler, optional: essential oils or fragrance |
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes (excluding cooling time) |
| Melting Method | Double boiler method (using a pot and heat source) or oven method (baking at low temperature) |
| Crayon Quantity | 6-8 standard crayons per small jar (adjust based on container size) |
| Wick Type | Cotton or wooden wick (pre-waxed or with wick holder) |
| Melting Temperature | 120-150°F (49-65°C) for crayons |
| Cooling Time | 2-4 hours (until completely solidified) |
| Scent Options | Essential oils (e.g., lavender, vanilla) or fragrance oils (optional) |
| Color Options | Mix crayon colors for custom shades or use single colors |
| Container Types | Mason jars, tin cans, glass containers, or heat-resistant molds |
| Safety Precautions | Adult supervision, heat-resistant gloves, well-ventilated area, avoid overheating crayons |
| Burn Time | Varies based on size, typically 5-10 hours for small jars |
| Cost | Low-cost (uses recycled crayons and household items) |
| Customization | Layer colors, add glitter, or embed small items (e.g., seashells) |
| Storage | Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources |
| Disposal | Recycle container and wick, reuse leftover wax |
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What You'll Learn
- Gather Supplies: Crayons, wick, jar, pot, knife, oven, gloves, and a spoon
- Melt Crayons: Break crayons, melt in oven-safe pot on low heat
- Prepare Jar: Secure wick to jar bottom, center it with a pencil
- Pour Wax: Slowly pour melted crayon wax into jar, leaving space at top
- Cool & Trim: Let wax harden completely, then trim wick to ¼ inch
Gather Supplies: Crayons, wick, jar, pot, knife, oven, gloves, and a spoon
To begin your candle-making journey, you’ll need to gather all the necessary supplies. Start with crayons, the main ingredient for your candle. Choose crayons in colors that you’d like your candle to be, keeping in mind that lighter colors may require more crayons to achieve a vibrant hue. Opt for non-toxic crayons, as they are safe to melt and burn. Next, you’ll need a wick, which is the part of the candle that burns. Cotton wicks are ideal for this project, and you can find pre-waxed wicks with a metal tab at the bottom, making them easy to secure in the jar. Select a jar to hold your candle—mason jars or any heat-resistant glass container work well. Ensure the jar is clean and dry before use.
In addition to the crayons and jar, you’ll require a pot for creating a double boiler setup. This method ensures the crayons melt evenly without burning. A medium-sized pot filled with a few inches of water will suffice. You’ll also need a knife to peel the paper off the crayons and chop them into small, pea-sized pieces. This step is crucial for faster and more even melting. An oven is necessary for preheating the jar to help the crayon wax adhere properly to the glass. Oven mitts or gloves are essential to protect your hands when handling the hot jar and pot. Lastly, have a spoon ready for stirring the melted crayons and pouring the wax into the jar. A metal or heat-resistant spoon works best for this task.
When gathering your supplies, consider the quantity of crayons needed. A standard mason jar typically requires 8–12 crayons, depending on their size and the desired candle height. If you’re making multiple candles, ensure you have enough wicks and jars. Double-check that your pot is large enough to accommodate the jar for the double boiler method. If you don’t have oven mitts, thick kitchen towels can serve as a temporary alternative, but gloves are recommended for better grip and protection.
Organize your workspace before starting. Lay out all your supplies within easy reach to streamline the process. Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) while you prepare the crayons and jar. This ensures the oven is ready when you need it. If you’re working with children, supervise closely, especially when handling the knife, hot pot, and oven.
Finally, take a moment to inspect your supplies for any defects. Ensure the jar has no cracks, the wick is intact, and the pot is clean. If using old crayons, check for any foreign objects that might have gotten mixed in. Having everything prepared and in good condition will make the candle-making process smoother and more enjoyable. With all your supplies gathered and ready, you’re now set to move on to the next step of melting the crayons and creating your unique candle.
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Melt Crayons: Break crayons, melt in oven-safe pot on low heat
To begin the process of making your own candle out of crayons, the first step is to gather and prepare your crayons. Select the crayons you want to use, keeping in mind that the colors will blend together when melted. It's best to choose crayons that are free from paper labels, as these can burn or leave residue in your pot. Once you've chosen your crayons, break them into small pieces. This can be done by hand, but using a tool like a hammer or mallet wrapped in a cloth can make the process easier and less messy. Breaking the crayons into smaller pieces ensures they melt more evenly and quickly.
After breaking the crayons, it's time to melt them. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200-250°F (93-121°C). While the oven is heating, prepare an oven-safe pot or container. A glass or metal pot works well for this purpose. Place the broken crayon pieces into the pot, making sure not to overcrowd it. You may need to melt the crayons in batches depending on the size of your pot and the amount of crayons you're using. Place the pot in the preheated oven and allow the crayons to melt slowly. This process can take 10-20 minutes, so monitor the crayons to ensure they don't overheat or burn.
As the crayons melt, you'll notice they transform into a smooth, waxy liquid. It's essential to maintain a low heat to prevent the crayons from burning or becoming too hot. If you're using a pot on the stovetop instead of the oven, set the heat to low and stir the crayons frequently to ensure even melting. Keep in mind that different crayons may have varying melting points, so some pieces might melt faster than others. Be patient and allow the crayons to melt completely before proceeding to the next step.
While melting the crayons, prepare your candle container and wick. Choose a heat-resistant container, such as a glass jar or ceramic pot, and attach a wick to the center of the container using a wick sticker or hot glue. Make sure the wick is centered and secure, as this will ensure your candle burns evenly. Once the crayons are fully melted, carefully remove the pot from the oven or turn off the stovetop heat. Allow the melted crayons to cool slightly before pouring them into your prepared container.
When pouring the melted crayons, work quickly but carefully to avoid spills. Leave a small amount of space at the top of the container to prevent overflow. If desired, you can add essential oils or fragrance to the melted crayons before pouring to create a scented candle. After pouring, allow the candle to cool and set completely, which can take several hours. Once set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) and your crayon candle is ready to use. Remember to always burn your candle within sight and keep it away from flammable materials.
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Prepare Jar: Secure wick to jar bottom, center it with a pencil
To begin the process of making your own candle out of crayons, the first crucial step is to prepare the jar that will hold your candle. Start by selecting a clean, dry jar that is suitable for candle-making. Mason jars or any heat-resistant glass containers work well for this purpose. Ensure the jar is free from any dust, debris, or moisture, as these can affect the adhesion of the wick and the overall quality of the candle. Once you have your jar ready, it's time to secure the wick to the bottom of the jar.
Take a wick that is appropriate for the size of your jar, typically a cotton or wooden wick. If using a cotton wick, you may need a wick sticker or a small amount of hot glue to secure it in place. Apply the adhesive to the metal wick tab, then press it firmly onto the center of the jar's bottom. Hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond. If you're using a wooden wick, some come with a pre-attached sticker, making this step even simpler. Press the wick base onto the jar bottom, ensuring it adheres well.
With the wick secured, the next step is to center it properly. This is essential for even burning and a professional-looking candle. Take a pencil (or a wooden skewer) and lay it across the top of the jar. Gently press the wick down so that the wick tab is centered, then wrap the excess wick length around the pencil. This will hold the wick in the middle of the jar, ensuring it stays upright and straight as you pour the melted crayon wax. Adjust the wick's position if necessary, making sure it’s perfectly aligned.
While the pencil is holding the wick in place, double-check that the wick tab is still firmly attached to the jar bottom. A loose wick can cause issues during burning, so it’s important to ensure everything is secure. If you notice any movement, reapply adhesive and press down again. Once you’re confident the wick is stable and centered, you can proceed to the next steps of melting the crayons and preparing the wax.
Finally, leave the pencil in place until you’re ready to pour the wax. This will maintain the wick’s central position and prevent it from shifting. Preparing the jar properly is a foundational step in candle-making, as it directly impacts the candle’s appearance and functionality. With the wick securely attached and centered, you’re now ready to move on to melting the crayons and creating your unique candle.
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Pour Wax: Slowly pour melted crayon wax into jar, leaving space at top
Once your crayon wax is fully melted and has reached the desired temperature, it’s time to carefully pour it into your prepared jar. This step requires precision and patience to ensure your candle sets properly. Begin by holding the pouring container (such as a heat-resistant measuring cup or pitcher) with oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands from the heat. Position the container directly over the jar, keeping it steady to avoid spills. Slowly pour the melted crayon wax into the jar in a controlled manner, allowing it to flow smoothly without splashing or creating air bubbles. Pouring too quickly can cause the wax to overflow or unevenly distribute, so take your time.
As you pour, leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jar. This space is crucial for two reasons: it prevents the wax from spilling over as it settles, and it allows room for the wick to be secured and trimmed later. If you fill the jar too close to the rim, the wax may expand as it cools and cause a messy overflow. Additionally, leaving space ensures your candle burns evenly and safely. If you’re adding essential oils or color layers, this gap also gives you room to work without overfilling the jar.
If you notice any debris or impurities in the wax as you pour, stop and use a spoon or spatula to remove them. These could be bits of crayon paper or unmelted wax, which can affect the appearance and burn quality of your candle. Pouring slowly also allows you to monitor the wax’s consistency and make adjustments if needed. For example, if the wax starts to cool and thicken, you can gently reheat it before continuing to pour.
After pouring, place the jar on a flat, stable surface where it won’t be disturbed. Avoid moving the jar while the wax is cooling, as this can cause uneven settling or air pockets. If you’re making multiple candles, repeat the pouring process for each jar, ensuring consistency in the amount of wax and the space left at the top. This step is where your candle begins to take shape, so attention to detail is key.
Finally, as the wax cools, you may notice a dip forming around the wick. This is normal and can be fixed later by reheating a small amount of wax and filling in the sunken area. However, pouring slowly and evenly the first time minimizes the need for this extra step. Once the wax is fully cooled and hardened, typically after a few hours, your crayon candle will be ready for the final touches, such as trimming the wick and adding any decorative elements.
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Cool & Trim: Let wax harden completely, then trim wick to ¼ inch
Once you’ve poured the melted crayon wax into your container and centered the wick, the next crucial step is to let the wax cool and harden completely. This process is essential for achieving a smooth, even finish and ensuring your candle burns properly. Depending on the size of your candle, cooling can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight for larger containers. Avoid the temptation to move or disturb the candle during this time, as doing so can cause uneven surfaces or wick displacement. Place the candle in a draft-free area at room temperature to allow it to set naturally. Patience is key here—rushing the cooling process can compromise the final result.
Once the wax is fully hardened, it’s time to trim the wick to the proper length. A wick that’s too long can cause excessive smoking, sooting, and an uneven burn, while one that’s too short may not stay lit. The ideal length for a trimmed wick is ¼ inch. Use a pair of sharp scissors or wick trimmers to carefully snip the wick, ensuring it’s straight and centered. If the wick has shifted during the cooling process, gently reposition it before trimming. This step not only improves the candle’s appearance but also enhances its performance, ensuring a clean and steady flame.
Trimming the wick to ¼ inch is particularly important when working with crayon wax, as it tends to burn differently than traditional candle wax. Crayons have a higher melting point and can produce more soot if not managed properly. A properly trimmed wick helps regulate the burn, reducing the risk of blackening the container or releasing excess smoke. It’s a small but significant detail that can make a big difference in the overall quality of your DIY crayon candle.
If you’re making multiple candles, repeat the cooling and trimming process for each one. Consistency is key to achieving professional-looking results. After trimming, take a moment to inspect the candle’s surface for any imperfections. If you notice air bubbles or uneven areas, you can gently melt the surface with a hairdryer or heat gun and smooth it out before the wax hardens again. This extra step ensures your candle not only burns well but also looks polished and ready for use or gifting.
Finally, remember that proper wick maintenance doesn’t end after the initial trim. Each time you light your crayon candle, allow the wax to melt evenly across the surface before extinguishing it. This prevents tunneling and ensures the candle burns down uniformly. Before relighting, always trim the wick back to ¼ inch to maintain optimal performance. With these steps, your DIY crayon candle will not only be a creative project but also a functional and enjoyable addition to your space.
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Frequently asked questions
You’ll need old crayons, a wick, a wick holder or pencil, a jar or container, a pot for melting (or a double boiler), and optionally, candle dye or essential oils for scent.
Peel off the paper labels from the crayons, break them into small pieces, and sort them by color if you want a specific candle color.
Use a double boiler or a heat-safe pot over low heat to melt the crayons slowly, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Alternatively, melt them in a microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Yes, you can add a few drops of essential oil or candle fragrance oil to the melted crayons before pouring them into the container. Stir well to distribute the scent evenly.
Place the wick in the center of the container using a wick holder or tape a pencil across the container’s opening to hold the wick straight while the wax sets. Pour the melted crayons around it carefully.
