If you start by yourself Candle making businessFiguring out what candles to make and sell is one of the most fun parts of the job. With a variety of scents, waxes and accents (like pressed flowers) to choose from, the process requires a lot of thought and creativity.
But with careful planning and the right tools, making candles at home is pretty easy, and your candle-loving friends will love the candles you make as home décor.
And this may just be the beginning Side job Or small businesses.
Now you can learn what materials you need and follow our 10 step guide on how to make your own candles.
Materials and tools needed to make candles
Here’s an overview of the materials you’ll need to make your own homemade container candles:
material
wax
Candle wax typically comes in the form of wax shavings or wax flakes and can be purchased in bulk online or at your local craft store.
The most common types of wax used to make candles are:
- Paraffin wax
- Beeswax
- Soy Wax
Wix
All candles need a wick, which is usually made from paper, cotton, zinc, or wood.
Thinner wicks are fine for most candles, but will go out quickly if used for larger candles. Similarly, thicker wicks are better for larger candles because they produce a bigger flame and melt the wax quicker.
Fragrance oil
Scented candles get their scent from essential or fragrance oils that are added to the melted wax during the candle making process.
You can use single note fragrances, pre-blended fragrance oils, or create your own combinations.
Here are some scent inspirations:
- Single note:
Bergamot, Mandarin, Rosemary - Pre-blended: Sea Breeze, Apple Pie, or Pumpkin Spice
- Custom Mix: Rose Patchouli, Lavender Sage, Mint Lime
The amount of fragrance oil and type of wax you use will determine how strong the scent will be from your candle. Waxes with higher melting points, like beeswax, will have less scent than waxes with lower melting points, like paraffin.
tool
Spatula
Using a heat-resistant spatula to stir the wax will ensure it melts evenly.
Heat-resistant candle container
Mason jars, glass bottles, and tins also make great candle containers – the larger the container, the larger the candle will be.
Double boiler
A double boiler is a kitchen tool that distributes heat from your stove evenly to control temperature, making it ideal for melting wax. You can use a store-bought double boiler or make your own by filling the bottom of a pot with water and placing a metal bowl on top.
thermometer
To measure the wax temperature, use a candy thermometer, digital infrared thermometer, or deep fry thermometer.
Popsicle sticks or pencils
You will need a popsicle stick, pencil, chopstick, or other lightweight, straight object to stabilize the core during the curing process.
Paper towels
Be sure to avoid getting wax on your kitchen towels – paper towels are great for wiping up wax drips.
How to Make a Candle in 10 Steps
- Prepare containers and equipment
- Measuring the wax
- Melt the wax
- Adding scent
- Place the core
- Stabilize the core
- Pouring the wax
- cleaning
- Wait until the candle hardens
- Light the candles
Making candles at home requires a few special items, some planning, and a little bit of time, but it’s easier than you might think. We’ll take you through the candle-making process step by step.
1. Prepare containers and equipment
You can buy candle holders or specialized candle jars at a craft store, or you can use empty mason jars or tin cans. Make sure you like the look of the container; most poured candles cannot be removed from the container before burning.
Make sure your candle container is clean and dry and place it on a flat surface with your wick, fragrance oil, popsicle stick, chopstick or other wick holder nearby.
2. Measure the wax
Measure out the amount of wax by pouring the wax flakes or shavings into a candle container to serve as your candle mold. Shavings take up more space than melted wax, so use two candle containers’ worth of wax flakes per candle.
3. Melt the wax
Pour the wax shavings or flakes into a double boiler and gently heat the wax. Carefully stir the melted wax with a spatula, catching any bits of wax that rise to the edge of the pot.
Paraffin wax melts at about 100 degrees F, soy wax melts at about 124 degrees F, and beeswax melts at about 145 degrees F. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperatures.
4. Add fragrance
If you want to make scented candles, now is the time to get creative.
Some fragrance oils are made specifically for candle making. In these cases, follow the directions on the package. If you use essential oils, add 30-40 drops of oil per 8 ounce candle. Add the oil slowly, stirring with a spatula.
5. Place the core
Place each wick into your candle container. Put a drop of wax (or superglue) on the bottom of the wick and allow it to dry on the bottom of the jar, adhering the wick to the center bottom of the jar. Make sure the bottom of the wick is centered in the container to ensure an even burn.
6. Stabilize the core
Before pouring, place 2 popsicle sticks over the top of the jar to hold the wick in place. This will help the wick stand upright as the wax hardens. You can also use a chopstick, pencil, or butter knife, but be careful not to drip too much wax.
7. Pouring the wax
Carefully pour the wax into your candle container until it is just below the rim. Pour slowly to minimize air bubbles.
8. Clean up
Dried wax can be difficult to clean up. If any melted wax drips onto your work surface or the outside of your candle molds, wipe it up with a paper towel. If any hardened wax spills, you can use hot water to clean it up.
9. Wait for the candle to harden
Soy candles will harden at room temperature in about 4 hours and are fully cured in 3-4 days. Paraffin wax candles will harden faster (about 2 days) and beeswax candles can take up to 10 days to fully harden. Once the candle is dry, remove the chopsticks and cut the wick.
If your candle dries out and develops holes or dents in the surface (usually caused by air bubbles that rose during drying), warm the wax a little more and apply a thin layer on top.
10. Light a candle
Light it up and let it burn! Candles make a great gift or online store item and are a cost-effective way to achieve a beautifully lit and aromatherapy scented home.
learn more: How to Start a Candle Business in 2024
Frequently asked questions about how to make candles
How do you make handmade candles?
There are three essential steps to making a candle.
1. Melt the wax.
2. Pour into wicked bottles.
3. Leave it as it is.
You can also get creative with fragrant oils, colorful layers, and decorative additions.
What materials do I need to make a candle?
Every candle requires three items:
1. Wax
2. Candle molds or containers
3. Core
Other tools that come in handy include a double boiler, popsicle sticks, and a candy thermometer.
Is it cheaper to make my own candles?
Yes. A premium scented candle can cost over $100 for 8 ounces, but a pound of soy wax flakes (enough for three 8 ounce candles) ranges from $2 to $10. Many fragrance oils are also available for under $10.
How can I make my candles smell stronger?
The secret to creating a strong scented candle is the oil. If essential oils don’t give you the scent you’re looking for, try specially made fragrance oils. These are made specifically for candles and are designed to give off a strong scent when burned. The type of wax you use also affects the strength of the scent. Waxes with higher melting points will have less scent than waxes with lower melting points.
