Learn how to make unique and stylish DIY concrete & cement candle vessels using our easy-to-follow guide.
If you love candles and home decor, why not combine both by making your own candle vessels using concrete and cement? Not only are these candle vessels stylish and modern, but they are also durable and long-lasting. With just a few simple steps, you can create your own custom candle vessels that are perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself.
In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make DIY concrete and cement candle vessels. We will cover everything from the materials you need to the finishing touches that will make your candle vessels stand out.
Many candle makers have learned to make DIY Concrete & Cement Candle Vessels to create their brand to sell at craft fairs or start a candle business.
Materials Required for DIY Concrete & Cement Candle Vessels:
To make your own concrete and cement candle vessels, you will need the following materials:
- Mortar mix (recommended Cement All or Quikrete)
- Concrete pigment or acrylic paint (optional)
- Water
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups or preferably a Scale
- Mixing spoon
- Silicone vessel forms or molds
- Candle wick
- Candle wax
- Candle fragrance (optional)
- Candle dye (optional)
- Cooking spray or vegetable oil
- Disposable gloves
- Safety glasses
- Dust mask
- Sandpaper
- Sealant (recommended ECO Advance or Rutland)
How to Make DIY Concrete & Cement Candle Vessels: Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area Before you begin, make sure you have a clean and flat work area that is protected from spills and drips. Wear disposable gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask to protect yourself from any dust or debris.
Step 2: Mix Your Concrete or Cement Mix your concrete or cement according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You may need to add water slowly to achieve the desired consistency. Make sure to stir the mixture well to avoid lumps.
In high humidity regions, I use a mix of 5 parts Cement All to 1 part water. A 4:1 can be used if the dry portion includes powdered cement colorant. Testing will be required for your vessels. I look for a thin pancake batter consistency. I use no more than 5% pigment.
Cracking sometimes occurs when the mix is too wet. Crumbling occurs when the mix is too dry.
If your vessels or trays are brittle or have micro-cracks after demolding, submerge the pieces in water for 24 to 48 hours, this curing process may make them stronger.
Step 3: Most silicone molds won’t stick and you can try skipping this step. Grease your candle vessel molds, and spray your candle vessel molds with cooking spray, or vegetable oil to prevent the concrete or cement from sticking.
Step 4: Pour the concrete or cement mixture into your molds, filling them to about ¾ of the way full. Tap the molds gently on a flat surface to remove any air bubbles.
Step 5: To release the bubbles vibrate the mold after you pour. I use a table vibrator to agitate the bubble to the top.
Step 6: Allow the candle vessels to dry for at least 24 hours. You can leave them to dry at room temperature or place them in a warm, dry area to speed up the drying process.
Step 7: Remove the Candle Vessels from the mold once candle vessels are completely dry. If the candle vessels are stubborn, leave them in the mold for another 24 hours.
Concrete and cement vessels must completely dry out of the mold for 5-7 days. If you are not sure if they are dried, you can weigh them every day until the weight stops dropping. Wash the vessels with a damp cloth and let them dry.
Each vessel must be sealed before use. I apply 3 coats inside and 1 coat on the outside with a sponge of Rutland’s Concrete Floor Sealer, waiting a few hours or a day in between each application. You can also use Mod Podge or Eath Safe sealants.
The sealant must cure for another 7 days.
Step 8: Melt the Candle Wax Melt the candle wax in a double boiler or microwave according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add fragrance and dye to the melted wax if desired.
Step 9: Pour the Melted Wax into the Candle Vessels Pour the melted wax into the candle vessels, filling them to about ¼ inch from the top. Allow the wax to cool and harden.
Step 10: Add finishing touches by sanding rough edges before sealing. The pigment can be added to the water before mixing to create different colors. Titanium dioxide (white) can be added to brighten the concrete.
Although concrete and cement are very durable, the walls on the vessels are thin and not indestructible. Testing is needed for the candle vessels in addition to regular candle testing.
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