Candle making is an enjoyable hobby that is rapidly gaining popularity. It’s a hobby that is gratifying for adults and kids alike, and it’s simpler than one might think. There are numerous candle scents available in craft and hobby stores, as well as unique molds and embellishments. Once you have started making these extraordinary candles, you will never again want to purchase them. The candles you can make yourself far exceed the design and quality of most store-bought candles.
Basic supplies required for candle making are paraffin wax, string, pencils or dowel rods, scissors, candle scents, colored wax chips, hot pads, a double boiler, and containers suitable for molds. Crayons are great for adding color to basic white paraffin wax. Use different crayon colors to create an original color, or use several crayons of the same color for each batch of wax. Suggestions for molds are pint-size cardboard milk cartons, decorative glass votive cups, heavy-duty paper cups, and any other decorative glass or cardboard containers. Optional supplies include small seashells, glass beads, whole coffee beans, and any other decorative additions that won’t melt when covered in hot wax.
Begin by melting the paraffin wax in a double boiler. If you don’t have a double boiler you can make one using two tin cans. Fill a large can halfway with hot water. A large coffee can works well as the base for a double boiler. Place a chunk of paraffin wax in a smaller tin can, and place it inside the larger one. Add colored wax chips if desired. Make sure the water level is below the rim of the smaller can, and heat it over a low flame until the wax melts. After the wax has melted, mix in candle scent if desired.
If you are using cardboard or paper molds you may need to trim the tops to make them the correct height. Next you will need to tie appropriate lengths of string to the centers of pencils or pieces of dowel rod. Center the wicks over the candle molds.
Add items to the container such as shells, beads, or other decorations of your choice. Use a hot pad to remove the container of hot wax from the double boiler, and carefully dry the outside of the can. Slowly pour the wax into the mold. When the wax reaches the desired height, even it out by gently shaking it on a level surface. This will also help level items you may have added to the mold.
A very interesting candle can be made with ice cubes and a paper or cardboard mold. Fill the container with ice, and pour the hot wax over the top. Holes will form in place of the melted ice cubes. After the wax cools and hardens, rip away the paper or cardboard, and you will be left with a very unique decorative candle. Trim the wick, and carefully sculpt away any extra wax around the edges of the finished candle.
Everyone loves candles, and these simple homemade candles make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Personalize them by adding favorite scents and colors to match the décor and unique taste of the recipient. Include a beautiful candleholder or doily, and place the candle in a gift bag with coordinating tissue paper. The recipient is sure to love this thoughtful gift, and you’ll save money by creating your very own original scented candles.
