How to make candles at home

Step 1: Measure the wax
Before you begin the candle-making process, make sure you have a clean, flat surface to work on. You can also protect the area with newspaper or paper towels. Move anything that you don’t want to get wax on.

Measure out how much wax you would need to fill your container, then double it. That’s how much wax you will need to melt.

Step 2: Melt the wax

Pour the wax into your double boiler and allow to melt for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add fragrance oils

When your candle wax is melted, it’s time to add fragrance oils. Follow the instructions on your wax package for how much to add. Simply pour it into your melted wax and stir for a few seconds. While this step is optional, we definitely recommend it for a lovely floral smell.

Step 4: Attach the wick

The wick needs to be attached to the bottom of your container before you pour in the wax. You can attach the wick by dipping it in the melting wax then quickly sticking it to the bottom of the container. Let the wax sit five minutes to harden. Alternatively, you can superglue it.

Step 5: Pour the wax

Before you pour the wax into your container, let it cool for a few minutes. When the temperature on the thermometer reads 140 degrees, it’s time to pour.

Then, slowly pour the wax into your container. Hold the wick in place, but don’t pull on it. Leave a small amount of wax in the boiler for topping off your candle later.

Step 6: Secure the wick

To prevent your wick from swaying in the melty wax, you need to secure it in place. Lay two chopsticks across the top of the container. Sandwich the wick in between so that it stays centered while the wax hardens.

Allow the wax to set for four hours at room temperature.

Step 7: Add more wax

If your candle hardened with an unsightly top (think cracks or holes) simply reheat and add your remaining wax. Let harden.

Step 8: Cut the wick.

Your candle wick should be less than half an inch long. If, when lit, the candle flickers or has a tall flame, trim the wick.

Option 1: Floral candles

With a paintbrush and some of the wax, adhere dried petals from your favorite bouquet to the side of the container. Do this before you pour the wax in the container in step five. For a more colorful candle, mix petals and leaves of different types. You can also add a fragrance oil that matches the flower petals you used.

Option 2: Colorful candles

Add chopped up crayons into your melting wax during step two. You will need 12 to 15 crayons for each candle. Choose crayons in the same color family to create the prettiest hue!

Option 3: Buried treasure candles

Find a small, inexpensive treasure (think a small toy, ring or necklace) and place it in the container beforeyou pour the wax in step five. Pour wax on top to bury the treasure. If you want to be able to see the treasure inside the candle, you can use a gel wax instead. X marks the spot!

Now that you know how to make homemade candles, you can make decor for your own home, or even better, a thoughtful gift for someone else. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, bundle your candles with a gorgeous bouquet for the ultimate present or home display. There are endless ways to customize your candles, so get creative and don’t be afraid to experiment. Happy crafting!