Candle Making Basics

It always pay to be prepared for your projects, and with this in mind, the following list of candle making gear should get you started.

Wax (paraffin, soy, beeswax, fat, or a combination)

Wicks (either pre-purchased or handmade)

Containers or Molds (Test all glass containers for suitability by filling them with boiling water. If they don't break, they're sturdy enough to use as candle containers.)

Candy Thermometer (Wax can ignite if it gets too hot. The thermometer is a precautionary measure. Always follow the temperature instructions that came with your wax.)

Fragrance (I like aromatherapy grade essential oils for this step.)

Dyes (Wax specific. Available where wax and wicks are sold.)

Double Boiler (or a container that can be used as a double boiler. For soy wax you can also use your microwave.)

Basic Process

You melt the wax, either one type, or a combination, in a double boiler or other two pan arrangement where the wax is melting in a water bath, not directly on a heat source. Color and add fragrance to the melted wax, and pour the hot mixture into a container or mold in which you have placed a wick. Make sure the container will sustain the heat of the melted wax by seeing if it will stand up to boiling water. Allow the wax to dry then top off with hot wax to smooth the surface, trim the wick, and use.

For more information on wax, wicks, fragrance and dyes, please see:

Candle Making Tips and Tricks
Make Easy Lavender Aromatherapy Candles