How to Make Wood Wick Candles

Wood wick candles are becoming increasingly popular. They not only burn for long periods, but they create a crackling sound similar to that of a burning fire when lit. Wood wicks also smell amazing, and are available in a variety of natural, wood scents. Making wood wick candles is no more complicated than making candles with traditional wicks, although it may take a few tries before you are able to insert the wick smoothly enough to avoid disrupting the surrounding wax.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Candle wax
• Two medium-sized pots
• Glass candleholders
• Essential oils (optional)
• Coloring or other additives (optional)
• Treated wood wicks

1. Gather all of your supplies into one convenient location, close to your kitchen stove or other heat source. Once the candle-making process begins, you may not have the opportunity to wander around the house collecting ingredients for your candles.

2. Fill one of your pots 75 percent full with water and place it over high heat until the water begins to boil. Once boiling occurs, reduce the heat to medium.

3. Place the second pot on top of the first, fill it with the appropriate amount of wax for the number of candles you wish to make, and leave it alone until the wax begins to melt.

4. Stir in any oils or other additives to the melted candle wax. This step is optional, but the addition of oils can turn an otherwise boring candle into an aromatic treat. Keep in mind that the wood wick will create its own scent when burned.

5. Remove your pot of wax from the heat source and carefully pour the wax into your containers. Be careful not to pour the wax too quickly or you risk splashing wax on nearby surfaces.

6. Allow the candle wax to cool until it is thick, but still soft. Depending on the type of container used, you may place your candle into the refrigerator for 6 to 8 minutes to hasten the cooling process.

7. Insert the wood wick into the center of your partially cooled candle, being careful to keep the wick straight and centered. Slow insertion will ensure the wax surrounding the wick is not severely disrupted.

8. Leave the candle to fully cool and set for a minimum of 24 hours before burning.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid pulling the layers of the wood wick apart.

[lizdunc]

on 1/12/2009 I having trouble getting my wood wicks to crackle good. Any suggestions?