Advice for Beginner's Interested in Candle Making

I have been making candles since I was a child. It is fun and relaxing, and relatively easy to do. When I show my friends some of my creations, they reply by saying how difficult it appears to be, and how they could never do it. On the contrary, it is very easy and fun to make candles. It is also something everyone in the family can enjoy and participate in.

So if you are interested in learning how to make candles, I have some advice that can help. I can walk you through the process, and hopefully save you a little time and money.

First off, It can be intimidating going to the craft store and realizing how expensive candle making can be. The molds can often top twenty dollars. If you get three or four, it can blow your budget. The truth is you probably have everything you need already in your home. You can use things like Dixie cups, to make little votive candles. Or little milk cartons, for square candles. A round Tupperware container can also work. Use your creativity, but just make sure there aren't any leaks in the mold before pouring.

When you decide what mold you want, you will need wax. You can purchase it, and everything else you need at your local craft store. If it is a small project, then three pounds will do. However, I always get the ten pound block of wax. If you plan on making more in the future, it is more economical.

You will need wicks. Just make sure to get a wick big enough for your candle. If it isn't big enough, your candle won't burn properly. I use the wicks with metal bottoms. It is more expensive, but they are more user friendly, especially for beginners.

Next buy some crayons. Crayons add the color to your candle. If you want the candle scented, they have all kinds of candle scents to choose from too.

You will need an old coffee can. Make sure to wash it out. Also you will need an old pot, but remember this important rule. Whatever instruments you use for candle making, can not be used for cooking ever again. Fill the pot a little less than half way with water. Start it simmering on the range top. Fill your coffee can with wax, and set it in the water. Do not boil. Let the wax slowly melt. When the wax is done melting, you can add your color and scent. How much color or scent should be added?. The answer is simple. It is up to you, and your own personal tastes.

A lot of candle makers buy special thermometers to know when it is time to pour the wax. Specifying that the wax should be one hundred eighty five degrees or less, before you pour. I have an easier way to do it, without having to spend that extra money. Let the wax sit for at least ten minutes. I stir my wax, (with an old knife) and scrape it off on the top of the coffee can. When the wax sticks on the rim of the can, it is ready to pour. If It melts immediately, wait another five minutes, and test again.

After pouring the wax into your mold, let it completely dry. Set the candles in a cool, undisturbed area. Do not be alarmed when the wick and the center of the candle starts to shrink, and fall in. This will happen on almost every project. Pour more wax in, until the top of the candle is flat and smooth. Depending on the candle, you might have to do this as many as three times. Just make sure between pours, you give the candle ample time to dry.

After the candle is completely dried, you can then remove it from it's mold. Usually you can turn the candle up side down, and lightly tap on the bottom of the mold. If this doesn't work, simply place the mold in the refrigerator for five minutes. Voila!, a new beautiful candle for you to enjoy.

Be inspired to and use your imagination to create one of a kind candles. Also never worry if a project doesn't work out. You can always remelt the wax and try again.