Simple Candle Making

 I recently got into simple candle making - there's a lot of variety if you want to get into the way the candle burns or colorings etc but I just wanted natural candles that smell great and make great gifts.

I was shocked to discover that essential oils are not recommended for candle making because of toxicity when burned and smoke points but I found a couple of great stores that make quality vegan fragrance oil, just for candle making! Brambleberry and Candle Science. Brambleberry let's you buy 10x 1oz fragrances for $20 so you can try them out! 1oz of fragrance let's you make 3x 8oz jar candles or 1.5x 14oz candles as I discovered! I got a cheap starter kit from Amazon that had the wax melter and  jug, soy wax, stirring spoon, thermometer, wicks with wick stickers and 2 wick holders. Then I purchased a scent I wanted to start with and the first batch turn out great! I used a Smiths inspired picture for my label. 

So here's simple candle making!

Simple Candle Making;

You will need;

• 1lb wax (I used soy)
• 1oz of fragrance oil (weighted, not volume)
• clean dry heat proof ceramic or glass jars (3x 8oz jars is the perfect amount)
• wicks and wick stickers
• wick holder or popsicle sticks to hold the wick upright
• candy/meat thermometer
• kitchen scale (for wax and fragrance oil prep)
• heat proof pad or trivet (optional but i like to take it off the hot plate to cool down faster)

Method

Have all your items ready to go!

Your jars should be clean and dry. Stick the wick sticker to the bottom of the wick and press the other side down well in the middle of the jar. Position the popsicle sticks in a cross hatch or use the wick holder to ensure the wick stays upright and centered when you pour your wax in.

I can't fit all of the 1lb wax in my jug right away but it will all fit once it's melted so I add half an then wait for it to melt on a medium setting and then add the rest.

Once all the wax is melted insert the thermometer and wait until it gets to 190F (this is where you would add any color or additives if using)

Take off heat (or turn heat off) and let the temperature come down to 185F before adding in the fragrance.

Stir through gently but thoroughly.

Let the wax cool to 135-140F before pouring.

Gently pour the wax into the jar until around 1/2" from the top without disturbing the wick. 

Candles will take about half a day to set properly, overnight is best.