This article is for the occasional crafter that likes to make their own candle.
Making candles from scratch requires a few things like candle wax, candle wicks, and vessels to pour the melted wax in. The vessels can be glass jars or metal tins like cans. You can even use a stout shallow bowl.
You can make utility candles or scented candles with fragrances of your choice. The wax and the wicks (and wick sticks if you do not have a hot glue tool) should be purchased at your local candle supply store.
Melting the wax and adding the fragrance can be done with things from around the house or from cheap items bought on a budget from the dollar store.
The wax can be melted in a pouring pitcher either metal or glass (measuring baking glass) in water and a saucepan on medium heat until it reaches about 185 degrees. Wax can also be melted in a recycled soup can. Use caution as this mixture is hot.
Remove the wax from the heat and add the fragrance stirring for a couple of minutes. Pour the mixture into your container with the wick already attached to the bottom of the container.
Let cool just until the wax starts to turn cloudy and attach the tape to the sides of the wick to hold it centered on the container. You can also use a wooden stick to hold it in place by wrapping the wick around it and resting it on the container.
Let the candle completely cool for at least 4-6 hours before disturbing it. I let my candles cure for at least 3 days before I burn them. This allows the wax to properly absorb the fragrance.
Because it is so much cheaper to make candles yourself, keep a container of soy wax and a bottle of fragrance on hand for when you need another candle. Fragrances are sold by ounce so you can collect them over time too.
Buy your supplies from candle suppliers like candlescience.com (they have a great website) or greatcandle.com (they have great phone support).
- Candle Making FAQ
