Candle Making
Create your own scented or unscented candles at home. Candle making is a relaxing craft that combines creativity with practical results—perfect for personal use or handmade gifts.
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Soy wax flakes (1 lb)($8-12)
- ●Pre-tabbed cotton wicks($5-8 for pack)
- ●Heat-safe container (mason jar or candle tin)($0)
- ●Double boiler or heat-safe bowl + pot($0)
Optional
- ○Fragrance oil (1 oz)($3-6)
- ○Thermometer($8-15)
- ○Candle making starter kit($20-35)
How To Do It
- 1
Prepare your container and wick
Clean your container with soap and water. Use a wick sticker or dot of hot glue to secure the metal tab of the wick to the center bottom of the container. Wrap the top of the wick around a pencil or chopstick laid across the container opening to keep it centered.
- 2
Measure and melt the wax
Fill your container with wax flakes to estimate how much you need, then weigh it (about 1 lb per 20 oz container volume). Create a by placing a heat-safe bowl in a pot of simmering water. Add wax and heat until fully melted (around 170-180°F).
- 3
Add fragrance (optional)
Remove melted wax from heat. When temperature drops to 180-185°F, add fragrance oil at 1 oz per 1 lb of wax (about 6% ). Stir gently for 2 minutes to fully incorporate the scent.
- 4
Pour the candle
Let wax cool to 135-145°F (it will look slightly cloudy). Slowly pour into your prepared container, keeping the wick centered. Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top. Do not move the candle while cooling.
- 5
Let it set and cure
Allow the candle to cool completely at room temperature (4-6 hours). Trim the wick to 1/4 inch. For best , let the candle cure for at least 24-48 hours before burning. Soy candles benefit from 1 week of curing.
Tips
- →Common mistake: adding fragrance oil when wax is too hot. This causes the scent to burn off, resulting in a weak-smelling candle. Wait until the wax cools to 180-185°F before adding fragrance.
- →Use a thermometer for consistent results. Temperature control is crucial—too hot destroys fragrance, too cool causes uneven texture.
- →Start with candle tins instead of glass jars. The opaque sides hide imperfections like '' that are common with beginners.
- →Never pour wax down the drain—it will clog your pipes. Wipe containers with paper towels while still warm.
- →Test burn your candles before gifting. A proper test burn reveals if the wick is the right size for even melting.
Communities
Resources
- CandleScience Learning Hub
Comprehensive free tutorials, videos, and guides from a leading candle supply company
- 15 Candle Making Tips for Beginners
Practical tips and common pitfalls to avoid from Kalamazoo Candle Company
- Instructables DIY Candles Guide
10-step visual guide with photos for making your first candles
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make a candle?
Active time is about 30-45 minutes. However, the candle needs 4-6 hours to fully cool and harden, plus 24-48 hours of before burning for best results. Soy candles benefit from a full week of curing.
How much does it cost to start candle making?
A basic starter kit costs $20-35 and includes enough supplies to make 4-6 candles. Buying supplies separately runs about $25-40 for wax, wicks, fragrance, and containers. Per-candle cost is typically $3-5 once you have equipment.
What's the most common mistake beginners make?
Adding fragrance oil when the wax is too hot. If you add fragrance above 185°F, the scent burns off and your candle will have weak fragrance throw. Always use a thermometer and wait for the right temperature.
Should I use essential oils or fragrance oils?
Fragrance oils are recommended for beginners. They're specifically formulated for candles and provide stronger . Essential oils can work but require much higher quantities and may not perform as well in candles.
Why does my candle have a sinkhole or uneven top?
This happens when wax cools too quickly or unevenly. Preheat your containers slightly, pour at the correct temperature (135-145°F for soy), and avoid drafts. A heat gun can smooth the surface after cooling if needed.
What type of wax is best for beginners?
Soy wax is ideal for beginners. It's forgiving, cleans up with soap and water, burns cleanly, and holds fragrance well. Golden Brands 464 is a popular beginner-friendly soy wax.