Brooke Martin
Making your own candles is a fun and relaxing activity that can be done at home. It's a great way to create personalised gifts for friends and family, or to add a cosy ambiance to your home. The process is simple and therapeutic, and you can make beautiful, natural candles in just 20 minutes using basic supplies such as wax, a wick, a jar, and essential or fragrance oils for scent. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can make their own homemade candles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time | 20 minutes |
| Ingredients | Wax, wick, essential oil or fragrance oil, jar, pot, stove-top |
| Wax | Soy wax, beeswax, paraffin wax, coconut wax, hybrid blends |
| Wick | Paper, cotton, zinc, wood |
| Scent | Essential oils (e.g. lavender, eucalyptus, lemongrass), fragrance oils, dried herbs |
| Curing Time | Minimum 24 hours, up to 2 weeks |
| Equipment | Kitchen scale, melting pot, large pot, spoon, thermometer, popsicle sticks or pencils |
| Tips | Trim wick to 1 inch, burn long enough for liquid to cover the top to prevent tunnelling |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wax
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is a common and economical choice for candle-making. It is derived from petroleum, which makes it less natural compared to other options. Paraffin wax has a high melting point, which can affect the scent throw of your candle.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural option that gives off a subtle sweet fragrance without the need for added oils. However, it tends to be more expensive than other types of wax.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is another natural alternative, although it is often blended with other waxes. Soy wax is usually more affordable than beeswax and can be easily sourced.
Coconut Wax
Coconut wax is also an option for candle-making, although it may be more difficult to source.
Blended Waxes
You can also choose to use a blend of different waxes, such as a combination of soy, coconut, paraffin, and beeswax. This allows you to customize the properties of your candle, such as hardness, melting point, and naturalness.
When choosing the right wax, consider the type of candle you want to make, your budget, and the desired scent throw. Some waxes, like soy and parasoy, are recommended for beginners as they are easy to work with and provide good results. Additionally, the type of vessel and wick you choose will also impact the type of wax you should use.
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Picking a vessel
First, consider the size of the vessel. This will depend on the amount of wax you plan to use and the desired burn time for your candle. If you want a longer-lasting candle, opt for a larger vessel that can accommodate more wax. Conversely, if you prefer a smaller, more compact candle, choose a vessel that holds less wax.
Next, think about the material of the vessel. Glass jars are a popular choice for candle-making, as they are readily available and create a stylish, modern look. However, you can also get creative and repurpose containers made from other materials, such as metal tins, ceramic bowls, or even wooden cups. Just ensure that your chosen material can withstand the heat of the melted wax and won't leak or crack.
The shape of the vessel is another important consideration. Straight-sided containers are often easier to work with, especially for beginners, as they allow for easier placement and centring of the wick. However, don't be afraid to experiment with different shapes, such as tapered or curved vessels, to create unique and visually appealing candles.
Lastly, consider the colour and design of your vessel. Clear glass jars showcase the beauty of the candle's flame and any added colours or decorations within the wax. Alternatively, you can choose coloured or patterned vessels to add a touch of personality and style to your creation. If you plan to gift your candles, consider choosing vessels that align with the recipient's taste or the theme of the occasion.
Remember, the vessel you choose will influence the overall character of your candle, so take the time to select something that reflects your personal style and the intended purpose of the candle. Happy candle-making!
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Adding fragrance
To add fragrance to your candle, you will need to decide on the type of wax and vessel you will use, as these will impact the fragrance oil ratio and the size of the wick. Common waxes for candle-making include soy, coconut, paraffin, beeswax, or blends of these waxes. The vessel can be a heat-proof container, such as a mason jar, sourced from your recycling bin or purchased from a supplier.
Once you have chosen your wax and vessel, you can determine the appropriate ratio of wax to fragrance oil. Typically, candles perform best when the wax accounts for about 93% of the candle, with fragrance oil making up the remaining 7%. For 12 ounces of wax, this would mean adding 1 ounce of fragrance oil. If you are using more than 12 ounces of wax, you can maintain this ratio by adjusting the amount of oil accordingly.
When adding the fragrance oil, first melt your wax using a double boiler or stovetop. Place your wax in a metal container and heat it indirectly by simmering water in a pot beneath it. Once the wax is melted, add the fragrance oil and stir with a spoon. You can also add essential oils or blends of essential oils at this stage if you prefer a more natural option. However, keep in mind that essential oils are not as potent as fragrance oils. For a stronger scent, opt for fragrance oils, adding the amount recommended by the brand on the package.
After incorporating your chosen fragrance, you can pour the wax blend into your candle vessel and centre your wick. Allow your candle to cure for at least 45 minutes to 3 hours, or up to two weeks, before lighting it. Curing allows the wax and fragrance oils to marinate and ensures a clean burn.
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Curing the candle
Curing your candle is an important step in the candle-making process. It involves allowing the wax and fragrance oils to "marinate" together before the candle is lit. This process helps to ensure that the candle burns evenly and efficiently, preventing tunnelling or cracking.
To cure a candle, it is recommended to let it rest for a period of time after it has been made, typically for at least 24 hours, or even up to two weeks. During this time, the wax will fully harden, and the fragrance oils will infuse throughout the wax. The longer the candle cures, the stronger the scent will become.
While it is possible to burn a candle immediately after it has hardened, curing is recommended to improve the candle's performance and aesthetic. Curing allows the fragrance oils to fully blend with the wax, reducing the risk of fragrance oil pooling on the surface of the candle, which can result in the production of black soot.
Additionally, curing gives time for any cracks or imperfections in the wax to be addressed. If cracks or tunnelling occur during the curing process, they can be filled with melted wax. This ensures that the candle is structurally sound and will burn evenly.
By taking the time to cure your candles, you can improve their overall quality and create a more enjoyable and consistent burning experience.
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Trimming the wick
Before trimming the wick, you must allow your candle to cure and harden. Curing allows the wax and fragrance oils to "marinate" together. This process can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 3 hours, or even up to 2 weeks, depending on factors such as the type of wax and the temperature it was heated to. After the curing process, your candle is ready to be burned or gifted, but you should first trim the wick to about 1 inch in length.
The size of the wick also depends on the type of wax, vessel, and amount of wax used. For example, heavier fragrances and darker-coloured candles may require a bigger wick. It is recommended to use a straight object like a pencil or popsicle stick to centre and stabilise the wick while the wax cools.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need wax, a double boiler, a container, a wick, and fragrance and/or dye (optional).
Soy wax is a popular choice for candle-making as it is eco-friendly, renewable, and biodegradable. Beeswax is another popular option, however, it is not vegan-friendly.
You can use old jars, teacups, tins, or coconut shells.
First, clean and dry your container. Prepare your work area by covering it with newspaper or paper towels. Next, create your double boiler by filling a saucepan with water and placing a pouring pitcher inside. Weigh out your wax, place it in the double boiler, and heat until it melts. Attach the wick to the bottom of your container using wax or super glue. Let the wax cool slightly, then pour it into your container. Hold the wick in place. Leave a small amount of wax in the boiler to top off your candle later. Allow the wax to set for at least four hours. Finally, trim the wick to less than half an inch long.
