Homemade Candles
Craft your own homemade candles with customizable scents and colors in a simple, fulfilling process.
Ingredients
Candle Ingredients
- 2 cups Soy wax flakes Main wax for candle making.
- 5 pieces Candle wicks (with a metal base) Use one wick per container.
- 1 oz Essential oils or candle fragrance Adjust to preference for scent strength.
- optional Candle dye Use to add color to your candles.
Equipment
- 1 Double boiler or a heat-safe bowl For melting the wax.
- 1 Thermometer To check wax temperature.
- 5 containers Containers for candles (jars or molds) Choose your preferred style.
- 1 Stirring spoon For mixing wax and scents.
- 1 pair Scissors To trim the wicks.
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare your workspace by laying down newspaper or a drop cloth to catch any wax spills.
- Gather all your materials in one place for easy access.
Melting the Wax
- Fill the bottom of your double boiler with water and place it on the stove.
- Add the soy wax flakes to the top section of the double boiler.
- Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until completely melted.
Adding Scent and Color
- Once melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly to around 150°F.
- Add your essential oils or fragrance to the wax (typically 1 oz for every pound of wax).
- If using candle dye, stir it in until fully blended.
Preparing Containers
- Secure the wick in the center of your container using a bit of melted wax or a wick sticker.
- Hold the wick in place with a pencil or stick across the top of the container.
Pouring the Wax
- Once the wax is at about 130°F, slowly pour it into the prepared containers.
- Take your time to minimize air bubbles and sloshing.
Cooling and Trimming
- Allow the candles to cool completely, which could take several hours.
- Once solid, trim the wick to about ¼ inch above the wax.
Notes
Experiment with layering scents and different containers for variety. Store completed candles in a cool, dark place for longevity.