subject: How To Make Candles At Home In Simple Steps [print this page] How To Make Candles At Home In Simple Steps
If you've been wondering how to make candles then you've come to the right place. Don't worry, it's actually much easier than you would think. All that you have to do is have a basic idea and understanding of the process, gather a few supplies, and you're ready to go. So, we're just going to go step by step through the process so that you can make your own candle today!
How to make candles step by step
First you have to gather all of your ingredients and materials. So, put all of your wax into a heat proof bowl, get a mold for your candle, and put a wick in the center with a wick tab. A wick tab is a small metal disk that keeps the wick from burning all the way done, which would be quite dangerous. Once you have all of your materials together put the wax (in the bowl!) over a pot of simmering water to melt.
While it is melting, put the wick tab (with the wick in it) in the center of your mold. Once your mold and wick are set up, turn your attention back to the wax. When the wax is completely liquid it is time to add whatever dyes, scents, or items (such as flower petals or herbs) and let the colors and aromas steep into the wax.
When the wax reaches 160 to 170 degrees (depending on wax type, if unsure go for 170), pour it slowly into the mold and put the rest of the wax off the heat. Now just wait for an hour or two for the wax to cool, and you have a decision to make.
Depending on the type and size of the mold that you use, there is a good chance that the wax sank a little in the center. You can either leave the candle like this, or correct it so that the top is completely smooth. To smooth the top of the candle, either melt it VERY carefully with a heat gun or reheat the left over wax and pour it (just a little!) over the cooled candle. If you choose to pour more wax, heat it up to around 180 to avoid having a seam between the two layers.
The last step in how to make candles is to simply unmold the candle and trim the wick. Now just put your candle where you want it, light the wick, and enjoy the fruits of your labor (while you start making more)!
