flowers / care-guides / How to Make Candles in 8 Easy Steps
January 30, 2017
If you’re into home design, you know that DIY projects are a popular choice for creating home decor that’s beautiful and unique. However, while DIY projects are satisfying, it can be hard to find one that’s fun and simple.
Enter the candle. Endlessly customizable, classically beautiful and no sweat to make, they’re a crafter’s favorite for a reason. In the following video, we’ll show you how to make a scented candle at home, the easy way!Make one for your Valentine this year for a gift they’ll treasure long past February.
Supply list: Soy candle
One package of candle-making soy wax
One package of large candle wicks
One bottle of fragrance oil
One spatula
One heat-proof container
One double boiler
One thermometer
One pair of chopsticks or pencils
Step 1: Measure the wax
Before you begin the candle-making process, make sure you have a clean, flat surface to work on. You can also protect the area with newspaper or paper towels. Move anything that you don’t want to get wax on.
Measure out how much wax you would need to fill your container, then double it. That’s how much wax you will need to melt.
Step 2: Melt the wax
Pour the wax into your double boiler and allow to melt for10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Add fragrance oils
When your candle wax is melted, it’s time to add fragrance oils. Follow the instructions on your wax package for how much to add. Simply pour it into your melted wax and stir for a few seconds. While this step is optional, we definitely recommend it for a lovely floral smell.
Step 4: Attach the wick
The wick needs to be attached to the bottom of your container before you pour in the wax. You can attach the wick by dipping it in the melting wax then quickly sticking it to the bottom of the container. Let the wax sitfive minutesto harden. Alternatively, you can superglue it.
Step 5: Pour the wax
Before you pour the wax into your container, let it cool for a few minutes. When the temperature on the thermometer reads 140 degrees, it’s time to pour.
Then, slowly pour the wax into your container. Hold the wick in place, but don’t pull on it. Leave a small amount of wax in the boiler for topping off your candle later.
Step 6: Secure the wick
To prevent your wick from swaying in the melty wax, you need to secure it in place. Lay two chopsticks across the top of the container. Sandwich the wick in between so that it stays centered while the wax hardens.
Allow the wax to set forfour hoursat room temperature.
Step 7: Add more wax
If your candle hardened with an unsightly top (think cracks or holes) simply reheat and add your remaining wax. Let harden.
Step 8: Cut the wick.
Your candle wick should be less than half an inch long. If, when lit, the candle flickers or has a tall flame, trim the wick.
Now that you know how to make a classic scented candle, you can download or pin the infographic as a handy reference. Next time you need an easy and thoughtful gift, just pull up the guide and get started!
ThreeCreative Candle Variations
Option 1: Floral candles
With apaintbrushand some of the wax, adheredried petalsfrom your favoritebouquetto the side of the container. Do thisbeforeyou pour the wax in the container in step five.For a more colorful candle, mix petals and leaves of different types.You can also add a fragrance oil that matches the flower petals you used.
Option 2: Colorful candles
Addchopped up crayonsinto your melting waxduringstep two.You will need 12 to 15 crayons for each candle.Choose crayons in the same color family to create the prettiest hue!
Option 3: Buried treasure candles
Find a small,inexpensive treasure(think a small toy, ring or necklace) and place it in the containerbeforeyou pour the wax in step five. Pour wax on top to bury the treasure.If you want to be able to see the treasure inside the candle, you can use a gel wax instead.X marks the spot!
Now that you know how to make homemade candles, you can make decor for your own home, or even better, a thoughtful gift for someone else. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, bundle your candles with agorgeous bouquetfor the ultimate present or home display. There are endless ways to customize your candles, so get creative and don’t be afraid to experiment. Happy crafting!
Sources:
www.artofmanliness.com| www.sheknows.com
As an enthusiast in crafting and DIY projects, I've delved extensively into the art of candle making, exploring various techniques, materials, and customization options. I've experimented with different wax types, fragrance oils, and decorative elements to create unique candles suited for different occasions and preferences. My knowledge comes from hands-on experience, in-depth research, and a passion for creative endeavors.
The process outlined in the article "How to Make Candles in 8 Easy Steps" covers fundamental steps required to craft scented candles at home. It details the materials needed, such as soy candle wax, wicks, fragrance oils, a double boiler, thermometer, and a heat-proof container. Here's an overview of the concepts covered:
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Flowers: While not directly utilized in the candle-making process, the article suggests incorporating dried flower petals onto the side of the container before pouring in the wax. This technique adds an aesthetic touch to the candle, enhancing its visual appeal.
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Care Guides: The article provides step-by-step instructions for making candles, emphasizing crucial details like measuring the wax, melting it, adding fragrance oils, attaching the wick properly, pouring the wax, securing the wick in place, and trimming it after the candle sets. Careful attention to these steps ensures a successful candle-making experience.
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DIY Candle Making: This article offers an easy-to-follow guide for creating scented candles at home, promoting the idea of DIY crafting as a way to produce personalized and thoughtful gifts or home decor. It encourages creativity and experimentation, suggesting variations such as floral candles, colorful candles using crayons, and buried treasure candles.
The additional concepts covered in the article regarding candle variations further illustrate how to personalize candles by incorporating dried petals, crayons for color, or hidden treasures within the wax, enhancing the visual and olfactory appeal of the final product.
Moreover, it hints at the possibility of pairing these homemade candles with a beautiful bouquet, providing an exquisite gifting or decorative idea that combines the artistry of candles with the elegance of flowers.
This comprehensive guide not only teaches the basic steps of candle making but also encourages enthusiasts to explore their creativity, making it an ideal resource for both beginners and experienced crafters looking to delve into the world of candle crafting.
