Anisha Riggs
Candles are a great way to create a cosy ambiance and scent in your home. Making your own candles at home is a simple and therapeutic process that can be easily customised to your tastes. You can make something that's totally unique to you, from the scent to the vessel. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to make your own scented candles at home, using natural ingredients.
How to Make Fragrance Candles at Home
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Wax, wicks, essential oils, fragrance oils, dried herbs, jars, glue, melting pot, heat-proof pitcher, large glass heat-proof bowl, saucepan, mixing spoon, candy thermometer, masking tape, paper towels |
| Wax Type | Soy wax, beeswax |
| Wax Amount | 1 pound of wax for 8-ounce jars |
| Essential Oil Amount | 60-100 drops |
| Fragrance Oil Amount | 1 ounce |
| Wick Type | Pre-waxed, pre-tabbed wicks with a metal base |
| Wick Size | Depends on wax brand, container size, and amount of fragrance used |
| Temperature for Melting Wax | 180-185 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Temperature for Pouring Wax | 140-135 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Cooling Time | Overnight |
| Additional Tips | Cover candles when not in use to preserve scent, use a dot of hot glue to secure the wick, use a disposable stirring device as candle wax sticks to everything |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wax
Type of Wax
The most popular types of wax for candle-making include paraffin wax, beeswax, soy wax, and coconut wax. Paraffin wax is widely used, especially for scented candles, as it carries strong fragrances. It is also affordable and versatile, with various melting points, making it suitable for different types of candles. Beeswax is another popular option, known for its long burn time and warm-toned, smoke-free flame. It is a good choice for pillar and taper candles as it doesn't drip easily. Soy wax is natural, made from soybeans, and has a soot-free burn. It is easy to work with and suitable for container candles, but it can be more expensive. Coconut wax is biodegradable, burns slowly, and holds fragrances well, making it ideal for high-end scented candles.
Fragrance and Burn Quality
If you prioritize fragrance performance and burn quality, consider using paraffin wax for its strong fragrance-carrying capabilities. Soy wax also holds fragrances well and is a good option for pure-smelling candles. Coconut wax is another excellent choice for strong fragrances, and it burns slowly, providing a long-lasting scent. Beeswax has a subtle honey scent and a natural golden color, adding to the aesthetic of your candles.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
If sustainability and eco-friendliness are important to you, consider using natural and eco-friendly waxes such as beeswax, soy wax, or rapeseed wax. Beeswax produces a clean burn, while soy wax is a renewable and natural resource. Rapeseed wax is sustainable, vegan-friendly, and produces minimal soot, making it a good option for eco-conscious candle makers.
Budget
Budget is also a factor when choosing wax. Soy wax is generally the most budget-friendly option, while paraffin wax is also known for its affordability. Coconut wax and beeswax may be more expensive, but they offer unique benefits in terms of fragrance and burn time.
Container Compatibility
Consider the type of container you will be using for your candles. Soy wax is particularly well-suited for container candles like jars or tins as it is easy to work with and has a soot-free burn. Paraffin wax is versatile and can be used for various types of candles, including container candles.
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Picking a container
Picking the right container is an important step in making scented candles at home. The container you choose will determine the amount of wax you need, the size of the wick, and the overall look and feel of your candle. Here are some things to consider when choosing a container:
Type of Container
You can use a variety of containers for your candles, such as heat-proof jars, glasses, tins, or old candle containers. Mason jars are a popular choice for homemade candles. Reusing old candle containers is a great way to recycle, but make sure to clean them thoroughly before using them. Place the container in simmering water to melt any remaining wax, then wipe it out with a paper towel and remove the old wick.
Container Size
The size of your container will determine the amount of wax you need and the size of the wick. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 fluid ounce of wax for every 1 fluid ounce of container volume. For example, if your container holds 8 fluid ounces, you will need approximately 8 ounces of wax.
Container Style
The style of the container is important for the overall look and feel of your candle. You can choose a simple, minimalist style or something more ornate or colourful. Consider the purpose of the candle and where it will be placed. For example, a candle for relaxation and aromatherapy may benefit from a soothing, neutral colour palette, while a candle for a festive occasion may call for a more vibrant container.
Heat-Proof and Safety
Ensure that your chosen container is heat-proof. Glass and ceramic containers are good options, but avoid using plastic or flammable materials. Also, be mindful that the container will be very hot after pouring in the melted wax, so use oven mitts or heat-proof gloves when handling it.
Wick Placement
Consider the size and placement of the wick in relation to the container. The wick should be centred in the container and secured in place with a dot of hot glue or superglue. The size of the wick will depend on the wax brand, container size, and amount of fragrance used. Many wick manufacturers offer online charts to help you determine the appropriate size.
In summary, picking a container for your homemade scented candle involves considering its type, size, style, heat-proof properties, and wick placement. By choosing the right container, you can ensure your candle-making process is safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.
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Adding fragrance
The amount of fragrance oil or essential oil you use will depend on the type of oil and how potent it is. A stronger fragrance will generally require more oil, while a lighter scent will need less. As a rule of thumb, you'll need around 60 to 100 drops of essential oil for a noticeable scent. If you're using fragrance oil, you'll need less, as a little goes a long way.
When adding fragrance to your candles, temperature is key. Make sure the melted wax is at the right temperature before adding your chosen fragrance. For soy wax, this is usually around 180-185 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir the mixture for a few seconds after adding the fragrance. As the wax cools, place the wicks inside the jars, centering them as best you can.
If you're using essential oils, you can add more without ruining the candle. This is a good option if you want a stronger scent but don't want to use fragrance oils. However, keep in mind that essential oils will never produce as strong a scent as synthetic fragrances. It's also important to note that the size of the wick you use will depend on several factors, including the amount of fragrance used. Many wick manufacturers offer online charts to help you determine the appropriate size.
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Attaching the wick
Preparing the Wick
Before attaching the wick, gather the necessary materials. Wicks with a metal base are the easiest to work with, especially for beginners. Pre-waxed and pre-tabbed wicks are readily available and simplify the process. The size of the wick is also an important consideration. The best size of wick to use depends on factors such as the wax brand, container size, and amount of fragrance used. Online wick charts can provide guidance on selecting the appropriate size for your specific combination of variables.
Once you have prepared your wick, it's time to attach it to your chosen container. Clean and flat surfaces, covered with newspaper or a towel, are ideal for this process. Start by securing the wick to the bottom of your container. A dot of hot glue on the bottom of the wick holder will help it adhere securely. Alternatively, you can use a bit of melted wax to anchor the wick in place. Center the wick as best you can, and ensure it remains upright.
Stabilizing the Wick
To keep the wick centred and stable while pouring the melted wax, use disposable tools like chopsticks or pencils. Tape the wick to the horizontal stabilizing tool, ensuring it remains upright and centred. This step is crucial to prevent the wick from shifting or becoming off-centre during the wax-pouring process.
Finalizing the Wick
After pouring the wax into the container, maintain the wick's position until the wax solidifies. This will ensure the wick remains centred and secure. Once the wax has cooled and set, carefully remove any tools used for stabilization. Before lighting your candle, trim the wick to approximately 1/4 inch. This will ensure a clean and even burn.
Attaching a wick may seem daunting, but with these steps and the right tools, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful, fragrant candles at home.
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Melting and pouring the wax
Melting the wax is a crucial step in candle-making, and it's important to get the temperature just right. The amount of wax you melt will depend on the volume of your containers. A good rule of thumb is to use one fluid ounce of wax per fluid ounce of container volume. Place your melting pot, bowl, or saucepan on a scale, zero it, and weigh the correct amount of wax flakes. You can melt the wax in a melting pot, heat-proof pitcher, large glass heat-proof bowl, or old saucepan placed in a large pot of simmering water, also known as a double boiler. If using a melting pot or pitcher, lower it directly into the water; if using a heat-proof bowl, place it on top of the pot.
Soy wax flakes should melt fairly easily over low to medium heat. Stir the wax occasionally with a wooden or disposable stirring device, such as a chopstick, as it melts. Be careful not to let the wax burn. When fully melted, the wax will look similar to olive oil and will likely be around 180°F (82°C) in temperature. However, it's not ready to be poured yet.
Continue heating the wax until it reaches 185°F (85°C). At this temperature, add your fragrance of choice. For essential oils, you will need around 60 to 100 drops, depending on the type and potency of the oil. If using fragrance oils, add one ounce. Remove the wax from the heat and stir to combine the scent.
As the wax cools, prepare your wicks. Place the wicks inside the jars, centering them as best you can, and secure them with pencils or chopsticks placed over the jar's opening. When the wax has cooled to 135°F (57°C), it's ready to be poured into the jars. Carefully fill the jars with the melted wax, then let them cool overnight. Before lighting your candles, trim the wicks to 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
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Frequently asked questions
You will need wax, wicks, essential oils or fragrance oils, a container (heat-proof jars, glasses, tins, etc.), a melting pot, a heat-proof pitcher, a large glass heat-proof bowl, an old saucepan, a large pot, a mixing spoon, a candy thermometer, masking tape, paper towels, and a disposable stirring device.
First, determine the amount of wax you need to fill your container. Then, start melting the wax by pouring it into a double boiler. Once the wax is melted, add your fragrance of choice and stir. When the mixture is ready, attach a wick to the bottom of the container and secure it in place with pencils or chopsticks. Then, carefully pour the wax into the container and let it cool overnight. Before lighting your candle, trim the wick to 1/4 inch.
The amount of fragrance oil you add depends on the type of oil and how potent it is. You will likely need around 60-100 drops of essential oil to scent your candle strongly. If you want a lighter scent, you can use fewer drops.
