How to Make Citronella Candles
Although the weather in the summer may be nice, the bugs usually are not. Mosquitoes can be especially pesky. In addition to spray-on insect repellents, citronella candles can provide reprieve from these aggressive, biting pests. Citronella candles can be very expensive, but you can experience the same effectiveness by making your own. Citronella candles are easily made with materials available at most craft stores and even some grocery stores. Protecting yourself while outside can be easy and affordable.
Things You'll Need
- Pre-made candle wick Wax blocks Citronella oil Candle mold Sauce pan Non-stick spray cooking oil Wood spoon Scissors Pencil
Instructions
-
-
1
Heat a sauce pan on the stove over medium heat. Heat for approximately 5 minutes.
-
2
Add wax block(s) to the heated pan. The number of blocks is determined by the size of the wax blocks, and size and number of candles you intend to make. Refer to the wax block's packaging to determine the number of blocks you need for your project.
-
-
3
Leave the burner on medium heat to melt the wax blocks. As the blocks are melting, stir in 1 oz. of citronella oil for each pound of wax.
-
4
Continue stirring occasionally until the wax is completely melted. Turn off heat but do not remove the pan until the mold and wick are prepared.
-
5
Remove the candle wick from packaging and trim the top to be approximately 4 inches longer than the candle mold's depth.
-
6
Spray candle mold(s) with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure that your candle is easily removed once it has set.
-
7
Pour melted candle wax into the candle mold. Fill to about 1/4 inch below the rim of the mold.
-
8
Tie the wick tip to a pencil. Use the pencil to lower the wick into the center of the candle wax until it touches the bottom of the mold. Without removing from wax, adjust the wick so that the pencil can sit on the top of the mold to keep the wick from falling or bending.
-
9
Allow candle to cool completely and remove from mold. Trim wick to be 1/4 inch longer than candle.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You can add candle color to your candle. Follow the directions on the colorant for achieving the desired effect. If you have old plant pots or containers, they can be used as molds for the candles. Do not remove the candle from these molds when set. Candles should be burned in candle holders which will keep the candle erect and prevent the melted wax from damaging other surfaces. Melt a little wax and drip the hot wax on the bottom of the candle holder, then put the bottom of the candle into the hot wax. This will help the candle to stick to the surface.
Use caution when burning candles. Do not leave a burning candle unattended. This craft is not for young children.
