How to Make a Candle at Home

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating Beautiful Candles at Home

Experienced Candle Makers

We are experienced candle makers of many years and are also tutors for our candle making workshops. So whether you're a beginner or literally starting from scratch, this step-by-step guide will provide you with the knowledge to make candles at home.

Making Candles at Home

Welcome to this guide to making candles!. In this guide, we will go through the entire candle making process from start to finish., including

• choosing the necessary equipment,
• choosing the right wax and wicks
• selecting the perfect fragrance and adding decorative elements.

You'll learn about the various types of candle moulds and containers, as well as techniques for achieving different candle shapes and textures.

Benefits of Making your own Candles

Making your own candles offers a range of benefits that go beyond just having a lovely, scented candle. When you create your own candles, you have full control over the ingredients used and the fragrance combinations. You can choose natural, eco-friendly materials and avoid harmful chemicals that are often present in store-bought candles.

Not only are homemade candles a pleasure to create, but they also make fantastic gifts. You can personalise them with unique scents, colours, and designs to suit the preferences of the recipient. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, a handmade candle is a thoughtful and heartfelt gift that will be cherished.

Essential Candle Making Supplies

The first steps in candle making are to gather all the necessary supplies. Here's a list of the essential items you'll need to get started:

1. Wax:
   Choose a wax that suits your preferences and needs. Beeswax, soy wax, and paraffin wax are popular choices. If you want an eco-friendly product, then plant-based waxes such as soy, rapeseed or coconut are best. Plant based waxes are often also vegan rated.
2. Wicks:
   Select wicks that are suitable for the type of candle you want to make. Consider the size and material of the wick to ensure it burns properly.
3. What Sort of Candles:
   Decide whether you want to make container candles or moulded candles. Mason jars, glass containers, or silicone moulds are commonly used.
4. Fragrance oils or essential oils:
   Add scent to your candles by choosing fragrance oils or essential oils. Experiment with different combinations to create your own signature scent.
5. Dye or colour blocks:
   If you want coloured candles, use dye or colour blocks specifically made for candle making. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired colour.
6. Thermometer:
   A thermometer is essential for monitoring the temperature of the wax. It ensures that the wax is at the right temperature for pouring.
7. Double boiler or melting pot:
   Use a double boiler or a melting pot to melt the wax. This helps in maintaining a consistent temperature and prevents the wax from burning.
8. Heat-resistant container or jug:
   Use a heat-resistant container or jug to pour the melted wax into the moulds or containers.

Step-by-step Guide to Making Candles

Now that you have all the supplies you need, follow these instructions to create your own beautiful homemade candles:

1. Prepare your workspace:
   Start by ensuring that your workspace is clean and free from any clutter. Lay down newspaper or a protective covering to catch any spills or drips. Please remember that kitchen cooking utensils and candle making do not mix!
2. Measure the wax:
   Measure the amount of wax you'll need based on the size of your container or mould. It's recommended to use a scale for accurate measurements.
3. Melt the wax:
   Using a double boiler or a melting pot, melt the wax over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and maintain it within the recommended range.
4. Add colour and fragrance:
   Once the wax has melted, add your chosen colour and fragrance. Stir gently to distribute the colour and fragrance evenly throughout the wax. Be careful not to over-stir, as it can create air bubbles.
5. Prepare the wick:
   While the wax is cooling slightly, prepare the wick. Cut it to the appropriate length, leaving a few inches extra to anchor it to the bottom of the container or mould. You can use a wick tab or a small adhesive dot to secure the wick.
6. Pour the wax:
   Slowly pour the melted wax into the container or mould, taking care not to spill or overflow. Keep a steady hand and pour in a smooth, continuous motion to avoid trapping air bubbles.
7. Let it cool and cure:
   Allow the candles to cool and cure undisturbed for several hours or overnight. This will ensure that the candles set properly and achieve a smooth finish.
8. Trim the wick:
   Once the candles have fully cooled and hardened, trim the wick to the desired length. Leave about ¼ inch of the wick above the surface of the wax for easy lighting.

Choosing the Right Wax for your Candles

The type of wax you choose plays a significant role in the quality and appearance of your candles. Here are some popular options to consider:

1. Beeswax:
   Beeswax is a natural and sustainable choice. It has a delightful honey-like scent and a beautiful golden colour. Beeswax candles burn clean and produce a warm, soft glow.
2. Soy wax:
   Soy wax is derived from soybean oil, making it a renewable and eco-friendly option. It has a lower melting point than other waxes and provides an excellent fragrance throw.
3. Paraffin wax:
   Paraffin wax is a traditional choice for candle making. It's readily available, affordable, and produces a strong scent throw. However, it's derived from petroleum, so it may not be the most environmentally friendly option.

When selecting wax, consider factors such as burn time, scent throw, and the type of candle you want to create. Experiment with different waxes to find the one that suits your preferences and needs. There is no right or wrong wax to use, it is a matter of personal preference.

Adding Fragrance to your Candles

The fragrance of a candle can create a delightful atmosphere in any space. Here are a few tips for adding fragrance to your homemade candles:

1. Choose quality oils:
   Use fragrance oils or essential oils specifically designed for candle making. Avoid using perfume oils or oils that are not suitable for burning, as they may produce unpleasant odors when heated.
2. Measure carefully:
   Follow the recommended guidelines for fragrance oil usage. Adding too much oil can lead to a weaker scent throw or potential issues with candle performance.
3. Experiment with combinations:
   Get creative and mix different fragrance oils to create unique scents. Consider combining floral and citrus notes or warm and spicy aromas for a delightful sensory experience.
4. Allow the fragrance to cure:
   After adding the fragrance oil, allow the candles to cure for at least 24 hours. This allows the scent to fully develop and ensures a consistent aroma when the candle is burned.

Remember that different fragrance oils have different flashpoints, so it's important to follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Decorating and Personalising your Candles

Once you've mastered the basics of candle making, you can consider giving your candles a personal touch. Here are a few ideas for personalising your homemade candles:

1. Embed decorations: Add small decorative elements, such as dried flowers, herbs, or glitter, to the melted wax before pouring it into the container or mould.
2. Use coloured wax layers: Create visually appealing candles by pouring layers of differently coloured wax. Allow each layer to cool and solidify before adding the next.
3. Experiment with textures: Achieve unique textures by using different pouring techniques or by manipulating the surface of the wax with tools or utensils.
4. Decorate the container: Enhance the appearance of container candles by adding ribbons, labels, or charms to the outside of the container. Be sure to use heat-resistant materials.

Remember to keep safety in mind when decorating candles. Avoid using flammable materials or anything that could pose a fire hazard.

Troubleshooting Common Candle Making Issues

Candle making is a creative process, and sometimes things don't go as planned. Here are some common candle making issues we have seen and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Sinking or dipping wick: If your wick is sinking or dipping into the candle as it burns, it may be too thin for the size of the candle. Try using a thicker wick or adding a second wick to provide additional support.
2. Tunneling: Tunneling occurs when a candle burns down the center, leaving wax along the sides. To prevent tunneling, ensure that the first burn is long enough to completely melt the wax pool to the edges of the container.
3. Uneven burning: If your candle is burning unevenly, it may be due to air currents or an improperly placed wick. Ensure that the candle is placed away from drafts and that the wick is centered.
4. Frosting: Frosting refers to the white, crystalline appearance that can form on the surface of soy wax candles. While it doesn't affect the performance of the candle, you can minimize frosting by pouring the wax at a slightly higher temperature or using a different type of wax.
5. Sooty flame: A sooty flame can be caused by a wick that is too long or by a candle that is burning in a drafty area. Trim the wick to the appropriate length and ensure that the candle is placed in a still environment.

If you encounter any issues while making candles, don't get discouraged. Candle making is a learning process, and with practice, you'll become more skilled at troubleshooting and achieving the desired results.

Final Tips for Successful Candle Making

Congratulations! You've reached the end of our ultimate candle making guide. By following the step-by-step instructions, you now have the knowledge and skills to create beautiful homemade candles. Here are some final tips to ensure your candle making endeavours are successful:

1. Safety first: Always prioritise safety when working with hot wax and open flames. Use protective equipment, work in a well-ventilated area, and keep flammable materials away from your workspace.
2. Experiment and have fun: Don't be afraid to experiment with different wax types, fragrances, colours, and techniques. Candle making is a creative journey, and the possibilities are endless.
3. Practice patience: Allow your candles to cure and cool properly before using or testing them. Rushing the process can lead to issues with performance and appearance.
4. Keep detailed records: Take notes of the ingredients, measurements, techniques, and outcomes of each candle you make. This will help you replicate successful candles and troubleshoot any issues in the future.
5. Share your creations: Show off your beautiful homemade candles to friends, family, and social media followers. Consider starting a small business or participating in craft fairs to share your creations with a wider audience.

Now it's time to put your newfound knowledge into practice and start creating those beautiful homemade candles. Remember, the more you practice, the better you'll become.

Our FelinFach Candles

As  you can see above there are many choices to be made in making candles - and none are right or wrong, they are individual preferences and judgements. Our candles are all made with soy or other plant-based waxes that are eco-friendly and vegan. We also use wood wicks wherever appropriate or eco-friendly lead-free cotton wicks. We have decided to make eco-friendly vegan candles - this is our choice, but what will yours be?

Candle Making Workshops

Attending a Workshop gives you the opportunity to make like-mined individuals and to receive detailed hands-on practical tuition from our Candle Making Tutor. The workshop tutor make all the candles, diffusers and wax melts for sale on this website. At the end of the Workshop, you will take away 3 candles that you have made and a 20 page File of guidance for you to use at home. Each workshop is held in a purpose designed Dye and Craft Studio.

Discover Candle Making Workshops

 

Candles and Soapery - Knowledge Base and Customer Support Portal

Extensive Candle-Care Resources all in One Place

If you need the full low-down on our chandlery, candle and soapery products, we’ve got all the details and information you’ll need in our Knowledge Base. Browse through these articles and experience all your candle-care resources in one place, click here... 

Candle Safety

It is always important to treat your 3 wick candles safely and with care. Please note the follow candle care advice... 

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Place candles on a stable surface away from flammable objects.
• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Extinguish candles before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Do not place candles too close together.

More information on Candle Safety and Care, click here...

About FelinFach

      

Located in Pembrokeshire Wales, our ethos is defined in the three words...

NATURAL TRADITIONAL HANDMADE.

• Hand woven iconic Welsh blankets and Welsh tapestry blankets.
• Hand dyed yarn, dyed with natural dyes only - no exceptions!
• Handmade candles, candle accessories, Candle Making Workshops and soapery.
• Natural Dyeing Craft courses.
• Yarn shop, yarn bowls, project bags, tools and accessories for knitters and crafters.
• Welsh Gifts, souvenirs, made in Wales, handmade in Wales.

We are a proud supporter of Americymru, the Campaign for Wool, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.

Last updated 25th March 2024