Candle-making has been around for centuries, and it remains a popular hobby to this day. With the increasing popularity of eco-friendly and sustainable products, wooden wick candle making has become a trendy and sought-after item.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about making wooden wick candles, from the materials and tools needed to the step-by-step process of making them.
I have included Amazon, Etsy, or Other affiliate links to help you in your crafting journey. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post via affiliate links to products or services associated with content in this article.
1. Introduction
Wooden wick candles have gained popularity in recent years and for good reason. They offer a unique burning experience, with a crackling sound similar to that of a wood-burning fireplace. They also provide a longer burn time and are more eco-friendly than traditional cotton wick candles. Making wooden wick candles is a fun and easy DIY project that you can enjoy at home.
2. Materials and Tools Needed
Before getting started, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Soy wax
- Wooden wicks (see section 3)
- Fragrance oils or essential oils
- Candle dye or coloring chips
- Candle jars
- Double boiler or a melting pot
- Thermometer
- Wick centering device
- Heat-resistant glue
- Scissors
- Spoon or spatula
- Scale
3. Selecting the Right Type of Wood Wick
Wood wicks come in different sizes and types of wood, such as cherry, birch, and maple. Choosing the right size and type of wick is important to ensure that the candle burns properly. The size of the wick should correspond with the diameter of the candle jar. The larger the jar, the larger the wick needed. The type of wood also affects the burning experience, with some woods offering a louder crackle than others.
Wooden Wick Types
These wooden wicks are from Amazon. The first is a standard wood wick and is most commonly used. The second wooden wick is circular and adds a unique look. The third is a wide ribbon style to create a luxurious look.
These wooden wicks are from Etsy.
4. Preparing the Wax
The first step in making wooden wick candles is to prepare the wax. Using a double boiler or melting pot, melt the soy wax or beeswax to a temperature between 160°F and 180°F. It’s important not to overheat the wax, as it can lose its scent and color.
5. Adding Fragrance and Color
Once the wax is melted, it’s time to add fragrance and color. Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the wax and ensure it is between 160°F and 180°F. Add fragrance oils or essential oils, following the recommended usage rate. Stir the wax gently to distribute the fragrance evenly. If you want to add color, use candle dye or coloring chips and stir until the desired color is achieved.
6. Preparing the Jar and Wick Assembly
Next, it’s time to prepare the jar and wick assembly. Using a wick-centering device, place the wooden wick in the center of the jar and secure it with heat-resistant glue. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
7. Pouring the Wax
Once the wick is secured in place, it’s time to pour the wax. Slowly pour the wax into the jar, ensuring that the wick remains centered. Fill the jar to the desired
8. Finishing Touches
After pouring the wax, it’s important to take care of the finishing touches. To prevent the wax from contracting and forming a sinkhole, use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently heat the surface of the candle. This will help to smooth out any unevenness on the surface.
9. Tips for Making Wooden Wick Candles
Here are some tips to keep in mind when making wooden wick candles:
- Use a scale to measure the wax and fragrance oils accurately.
- Use a wick-centering device to ensure the wick stays centered while pouring the wax.
- Avoid overpouring the wax, as it can cause the candle to crack or shrink.
- Experiment with different fragrances and color combinations to find your perfect candle.
- Allow the candle to cure for at least 24 hours before burning it.
- Soak the wooden wicks in vegetable oil for a few hours before using them.
- Here is an additional article for selecting the right wick.
- Some wooden wicks come with a booster (an additional piece added to the wick). This allows the wick to burn hotter.
- Wicks can be doubled up in thickness to burn correctly for larger-diameter candle jars.
- Testing for the diameter jar, wax type, and fragrance is essential for achieving the best result.
10. Safety Precautions
When making candles, it’s important to take safety precautions to prevent accidents. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Always work in a well-ventilated area.
- Use heat-resistant gloves to handle hot wax and equipment.
- Never leave melting wax unattended.
- Keep flammable materials away from the work area.
- Use a fire extinguisher or baking soda to put out a wax fire.
FAQ
- How long do wooden wick candles burn? Wooden wick candles can burn for up to 50 hours, depending on the size of the candle jar and the type of wax used.
- Can I reuse the candle jar? Yes, you can reuse the candle jar after the candle has burned down. Simply clean out any remaining wax and use it for storage or as a decorative item.
- Do wooden wicks produce more smoke than cotton wicks? No, wooden wicks do not produce more smoke than cotton wicks. However, it’s important to trim the wick before each use to prevent excessive smoking.
- Can I add glitter or other decorations to the wax? It’s not recommended to add glitter or other decorations to the wax, as they can clog the wick and affect the burning performance.
- How can I fix a sinkhole in my candle? If your candle develops a sinkhole after curing, you can use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently melt the surface of the wax and fill in the hole.
Conclusion
Wooden wick candles offer a unique and enjoyable burning experience, and making them at home is a fun and rewarding DIY project. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create your own wooden wick candles that are both eco-friendly and beautiful. Just remember to take the necessary safety precautions and experiment with different fragrances and colors to find your perfect candle
