Crafting Fragrant Candles: A Beginner's Guide To Making Scented Candles

Making your own scented candles is a fun and easy project that can be done by beginners. It's also a great way to save money, as store-bought candles can be expensive. All you need is a candle-making kit, your favourite essential oils, and a heat-resistant jar. You can make several candles at once, which is perfect for gifting.

The process is simple: melt your wax, add your chosen fragrance, and pour the mixture into a jar with a wick. Let the candle set, then trim the wick, and it's ready to burn. You can use a variety of waxes, such as soy wax or beeswax, and customise your candle with different essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus.

So, if you're looking for a therapeutic DIY project that yields beautiful, natural candles for your home or to gift to loved ones, making fragrance candles is a great option.

Choosing the right wax

The type of wax you choose for your candle is important, as it will determine the overall quality and burn of your final product. There are a few different types of wax that you can use, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Here is a guide to help you choose the right wax for your fragrance candles:

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is a common type of wax used for candle-making. It is derived from petroleum and offers a strong and long-lasting burn. However, it may not be the best option if you are looking for a natural product. Paraffin wax may produce more soot and release toxins when burned, so it is often avoided by those seeking a more eco-friendly and healthy alternative.

Soy Wax

Soy wax is a natural and popular choice for candle makers. It is made from hydrogenated soybean oil and offers a clean burn with little soot. Soy wax is non-toxic and inexpensive, making it an excellent option for those seeking an affordable and natural alternative to paraffin wax. Additionally, soy wax holds fragrance well, making it ideal for creating scented candles. It has a slower burn rate than paraffin wax, so your candles will last longer.

Beeswax

Beeswax is another natural wax option that is derived from honeycombs. It has a beautiful honey-like scent, which makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle fragrance. Beeswax is also slow-burning and inexpensive, but it may not hold fragrances as well as soy wax. If you are looking for a natural option with a gentle aroma, beeswax could be the perfect choice.

When choosing the right wax, consider the burn time, fragrance retention, and natural properties of each type. Soy wax and beeswax are excellent choices for eco-friendly and non-toxic candles, while paraffin wax may be preferred for a stronger and longer-lasting burn. The type of wax you select will depend on your specific requirements and the overall experience you wish to create with your fragrance candles.

Picking the perfect scent

The scent of a candle is arguably the most important feature. It is the element that fills the room and creates the atmosphere. When choosing a scent, it is important to consider the purpose of the candle and the type of fragrance you are drawn to.

Firstly, consider the purpose of your candle. Do you want it to be relaxing and soothing, or more invigorating and uplifting? Perhaps you want to create a romantic ambiance or set a festive mood? Different scents can help you achieve these different effects. For example, if you want a relaxing candle, opt for scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or grapefruit, which are known for their calming properties. If you're looking for something invigorating, choose citrus scents like lemon or orange, or herbal scents like rosemary or basil, can add a refreshing and playful touch. For a romantic vibe, consider floral scents like rose or jasmine, while festive candles often feature scents like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pine.

Next, think about the types of fragrances you are naturally drawn to. Do you prefer floral, fruity, woody, or fresh scents? Floral scents include rose, jasmine, and lavender, which are perfect if you want a classic, elegant fragrance. Fruity scents such as grapefruit, lemon, or berry can add a refreshing and playful touch. Woody scents, like sandalwood or cedarwood, provide an earthy and warm aroma, while fresh scents, such as ocean breeze or linen, offer a crisp and clean fragrance.

Another factor to consider is the strength of the scent. If you want a subtle fragrance, opt for essential oils, which provide a more delicate aroma. On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger scent that fills the room, fragrance oils are a better choice. However, keep in mind that some fragrance oils may contain synthetic ingredients, so if you prefer a natural option, essential oils are the way to go.

Finally, you can also get creative and make custom blends by combining different scents. For example, you could mix lavender and eucalyptus for a fresh and relaxing aroma, or grapefruit and rosemary for a unique, invigorating fragrance. Experiment with different combinations to create a signature scent that is truly yours.

Remember, the scent of a candle is a personal choice, so choose something that appeals to your senses and suits the purpose of your candle. With the right fragrance, your homemade candle will not only fill your space with a delightful aroma but also help set the mood and enhance the atmosphere.

Finding a suitable container

Material

You will want to choose a container that is made of heat-resistant material, such as glass or metal. Glass jars, such as Mason jars or recycled candle jars, are a popular choice for candle containers because they are sturdy and can be easily found or repurposed. Metal containers, such as tin cans, can also be used, but make sure they are heat-safe. Avoid using plastic containers, as they may melt or release toxins when exposed to high temperatures.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the container will determine the size and shape of your finished candle. Containers can range from small, 4-ounce jars to larger, 16-ounce jars. You can also use containers with unique shapes, such as tea cups or recycled food containers, to give your candles a more distinctive look. Keep in mind that the size and shape of the container will also affect the amount of wax and other ingredients you need, as well as the size of the wick.

Colour and Decoration

The colour and decoration of the container can enhance the overall aesthetic of your candle. You can choose a simple, clear container to showcase the colour and texture of the wax and any added decorations, such as dried herbs or flowers. Alternatively, you can choose a coloured or patterned container to add a unique touch to your candle's design. If you wish to decorate your container, consider using labels, paint, or other adornments that can withstand heat and won't be damaged by the hot wax.

Safety

When choosing a container, it is crucial to prioritise safety. Ensure that the container is sturdy and stable, with no cracks or sharp edges that could cause injury. The container should also have a wide enough opening to allow for easy pouring of the wax and placement of the wick. Avoid using flammable materials near the container, and always follow general candle safety guidelines when burning your finished product.

Reusing Old Containers

You can save money and reduce waste by reusing old candle containers. To do this, place the used candle jar in the freezer for a few days, then gently scrape out the old wax and wick. Alternatively, you can melt and remove the old wax, leaving the wick intact, and repurpose the container with new wax and a fresh wick. Ensure that any reused container is thoroughly cleaned and dried before pouring in the new wax.

Preparing the wick

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need wicks with a metal base, a heat-safe bowl or jar, and hot wax. The number of wicks and the amount of wax will depend on the size of your candle and the number of candles you are making. For example, a recipe for two 8-ounce candles requires two wicks and four cups of wax.

Next, prepare your workspace. Place the heat-safe bowl or jar on a flat, clean surface covered with a newspaper or towel. This will catch any wax drips and make clean-up easier.

Now, it's time to melt the wax. If you are using soy wax flakes or beeswax pellets, add them to your bowl or jar and place it in a saucepan of simmering water on the stove. This is called a double boiler method, which prevents the wax from coming into direct contact with the heat source and burning. You can also use a slow cooker or a dedicated wax melting pot if you have one. Stir the wax occasionally with a disposable utensil, such as a wooden skewer or popsicle stick, until it is completely melted.

Once your wax is melted, it's time to prepare the wicks. Dip the metal base of each wick into the hot wax. This will help the wick adhere to the bottom of your jar or container. Carefully place the wicked jar on a towel to protect your work surface, and then place the metal base of the wick at the bottom of the jar. Use a clothespin, mechanical pencil, or chopstick to secure the wick in place, resting the utensil on top of the jar to keep the wick centred and upright.

At this point, you can add fragrance or essential oils to your melted wax if desired. Simply stir in the desired amount of oil with a disposable utensil.

Finally, carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared jars. Be sure to pour slowly and carefully to avoid spilling. Allow the wax to cool and solidify completely, which may take several hours or overnight.

Melting and pouring the wax

Melting the wax is the first step in the candle-making process. The wax you use will depend on your preference, but soy wax and beeswax are good natural options. You will need a double-boiler setup to melt the wax. This can be done by placing a glass bowl over a pot of water on the stove, or using a slow cooker. If you are using a pot, fill it halfway with water and place a heat-safe bowl, tall glass measuring cup, or candle pourer inside. You can also place the bowl on top of the pot, as long as it is not in direct contact with the heat source.

Once your setup is ready, add the wax. If you are using soy wax flakes, you will need about 4 cups for two 8-ounce candles. Beeswax pellets will take a bit longer to melt than soy wax. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a lively simmer. Allow the wax to melt completely, which should take about 15 minutes.

Once the wax is melted, you can add your fragrance. For essential oils, you will need about 60 drops per candle. For fragrance oils, follow the instructions on the package. Use a wooden skewer, popsicle stick, or chopstick to stir the fragrance into the wax.

Now it's time to pour the wax into your containers. Place a towel or parchment paper underneath the jars to protect your work surface. Use a pencil or clothespin to secure the wicks, and make sure they are centred in the jars. Gently pour the wax into each jar, being careful not to spill.

The final step is to let the wax cool and solidify. This will take about 20 minutes, but it is best to let the candles rest for 24 hours before using them. Once the wax is solid, trim the wicks to about 1 inch. Your candles are now ready to be enjoyed!

Frequently asked questions