How to Make Your Own Candles

Wax candle

You can make your own candles from home very easily. You'll save money over buying them and can customize candle scents and colors to your taste or home decor. Once you learn the method, you'll improve your speed and technique quickly. Making candles at home can also be a great side business, hobby or source of gifts for friends and family.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Wax
• Fragrance
• Candle dye
• Candle wicks
• Double boiler
• Jars or molds
• Thermometer

Make Your Own Candles

1. Gather your materials. There are many types of wax available, from paraffin to soy wax to beeswax. Soy is fast becoming the most popular option because it is natural, without the carcinogenic properties of petroleum-based materials, and more affordable than beeswax.

2. 

   Prepare your wicks and containers. Wicks should be cut about an inch or two taller than the height of your container or mold, and containers should be clean and dry. Pint- and quart-size mason jars are great options for jar candles.

3. Melt wax in a double boiler or wax melter. Keep a candy thermometer clipped to the side and stir wax gently with a wooden spoon or chopstick. When wax is fully melted at the correct temperature (this varies according to the wax; soy is about 150 degrees Fahrenheit), remove from heat source.

4. Stir wax dye into the melted wax, ensuring an even coloring.

5. Cool wax mixture slightly before adding the fragrance. Mix again to incorporate.

6. 

   Allow candles to cool completely before use.

Tips & Warnings

• A good rule of thumb is to add 1 to 1.5 ounces of fragrance per pound of wax.

• Never leave wax unattended on the stove as it is combustible.