How to Make Candles

White candles with gold leaf garland on dark background

Candles add beauty and interest to the decor of many homes. If using scented candles, they also add a pleasant smell that contributes to a nice ambiance. While many people purchase candles already made, the process of making a candle is simple, inexpensive and fun.

1. Gather Supplies

Gather the supplies you will need to make your candle.

Many hobby shops sell candle-making kits that include the wax, wicks, a container or mold, coloring and scent for one reasonable price.

Besides the basic candle-making supplies, you will need a way to melt the wax, a thermometer and a glass measuring cup. Some candle suppliers also recommend that you use a scale for precise measuring.

2. Prepare and Melt Wax

Prepare the wax by breaking the block into small pieces.

Many candle makers prefer to grate the wax block to make melting quicker.

Place the wax particles in a double-boiler if you are melting on a stove-top burner. If using the microwave, use a glass dish such as a measuring cup. Monitor the wax closely as it melts, checking the temperature with the thermometer and stirring to mix the particles together. The temperature should stay below 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

For easier clean up, stir with a disposable popsicle stick

3. Add Fragrance and Color

Mix candle colorant into the melted wax until the desired shade is reached. Mix in the fragrance oil of your choice, incorporating it thoroughly into the wax mixture. Maintain a temperature of around 170 degrees Fahrenheit as you prepare the container and wick.

4. Prepare the Container

Heat the container for your candle in a warm oven until it reaches around 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This will prevent the hot wax from breaking or cracking the container when the wax is poured. When properly heated, remove the container from the heat and center one or more wicks in the container, weighting if necessary.

5. Pour and Cool the Candle

Pour the hot wax into your prepared container. Wiggle the container as the wax enters it to remove any pockets of air. Pour slowly until the container is filled, adjusting the wick as necessary to keep it centered. Allow the candle to cool completely.

Once cooled, you can add extra wax in areas where there are depressions or holes.

Mix in the fragrance oil of your choice