These candles are going to be lit.
Candles – especially scented candles – are one of the classic elements to making a space cozy. They smell great, they look pretty, and they cast the room in a sort of soft glow. If you're a candle-lover, you might be interested in making your own personalized candles, either to give away as gifts, or to keep for yourself. This handy how-to guide will walk you through how to make your own cozy candles.
First of all, you'll need some supplies. Most of what you'll need is available at craft stores like Michaels, but if you're struggling to find something it may also be available online. Here's a list of things you'll need:
– First and most importantly, wax.
– Candle wick.
– Glass jars, or another container. I once made a candle in a ceramic flower pot, but jars are the best. You can save old jam jars or containers from old store bought candles if you don't want to buy these.
– Essential oils in the scent you want.
– Coloured wax melts. I've been using an old box of crayons, so if you have some on hand, those will also work.
– A large knife and cutting board, ideally ones that are easy to clean.
– A double boiler, also ideally easy to clean.
– A pencil or pen.
Once you've gathered your supplies, you're ready to get started. First, cut off a chunk of wax using your knife and cutting board. The exact size will vary depending on the size of your jar/container, but I usually cut off about a cup of wax. Put your wax in your double boiler and melt it. As your wax is melting, you can add in your essential oils, and your colour melts or crayon. You shouldn't need much of either – maybe five drops of essential oil and one crayon.
While your wax is melting, you can prepare your wick. Cut off a piece of wick that is a couple inches longer than the height of your container. Tie one end of this wick to your pencil or pen. Dip the wick in the hot wax, allow it to dry, and rest your pencil or pen on top of the container so the wick hangs down into the middle. Try and keep the wick as straight as possible.
When all your wax has melted, pour it into your container, and set it aside. Clean your knife, cutting board, and double boiler thoroughly. When the wax has completely solidified, cut the wick and remove the pen or pencil.
This will make a simple, one-coloured candle. However, you can also make layered candles. Melt a portion of your wax with one colour melt/piece of crayon, and pour it into your container to form the first layer. Then melt another portion of your wax with another colour, wait until your first layer is set, and add the second layer. You can also add multiple wicks if you are making a bigger candle.
If you prefer to have a visual reference to follow, here's a video to guide you. Their method is a little bit different than mine, and their candle is a bit simpler, but the result is similar.
Let me know how your candles turn out in the comments below!
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