In this blog post, we are discussing A Beginner’s Guide to DIY Candle Making.
DIY candle making isn’t just a craft; it’s an art form, a form of self-expression, and a soothing ritual all rolled into one.
If you’re drawn to the idea of creating a calming space, gifting something heartfelt, or simply diving into a hands-on hobby, this guide is your gateway to turning everyday ingredients into glowing works of art.
In a world where mass-produced products dominate shelves, making your own candles gives you the rare chance to slow down, customize your scents, choose clean ingredients, and pour a little bit of your soul into something beautiful.
You don’t need a fancy setup or experience to get started, just a curious heart, a few simple tools, and this step-by-step guide.
Welcome to the warm, fragrant world of DIY candle making.
A Beginner’s Guide to DIY Candle Making
1. Wax
Types of Wax:
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Soy Wax: Natural, clean-burning, and beginner-friendly. Great for container candles.
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Beeswax: Natural and long-burning with a subtle honey scent. Slightly more expensive.
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Paraffin Wax: Holds scent and color well but is petroleum-based (less eco-friendly).
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Coconut Wax: Luxurious and creamy with excellent scent throw.
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Blended Waxes: Many brands offer pre-mixed waxes for better performance.
Tip: Start with soy wax flakes if you’re a beginner; easy to handle and melts evenly.
2. Wicks
Types of Wicks:
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Cotton Wicks: Most common, good for clean burning.
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Wooden Wicks: Create a crackling sound like a mini fireplace.
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Hemp Wicks: Eco-friendly option, burns slowly.
Choosing the Right Wick:
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The size of the wick depends on the diameter of your container.
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Use a wick sizing chart or kit when starting out.
3. Containers or Molds
You can pour your wax into:
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Glass jars (mason jars, candle tins, teacups)
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Silicone molds (for pillar or shaped candles)
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Ceramic or heat-safe containers
Tip: Avoid plastic or thin metal as they may melt or warp.
4. Double Boiler or Wax Melting Pot
You’ll need to safely melt your wax using indirect heat.
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Use a double boiler, or place a metal pouring pitcher in a pot of boiling water.
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Do NOT melt wax directly on a stove burner, it’s a fire risk.
5. Thermometer
A candle-making thermometer is essential to:
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Monitor wax melting temperature (typically around 170–180°F / 76–82°C)
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Ensure safe pouring temp (usually 130–150°F / 54–65°C)
This helps you avoid issues like poor scent throw or cracking.
6. Fragrance Oils or Essential Oils
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Add fragrance oils for strong, lasting scents.
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Use essential oils for natural, subtle aromas (but they have a lower scent throw).
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Fragrance load: Typically 6–10% of your wax weight.
Tip: Not all essential oils are safe for burning; use those specifically labeled for candles.
7. Colorants (Optional)
To tint your candles:
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Use candle dye blocks, liquid dyes, or natural colorants like turmeric or beetroot powder.
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Avoid food coloring or crayons, they can clog the wick or burn improperly.
8. Wick Holders or Centering Devices
These keep the wick upright and centered while the wax cools.
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Use popsicle sticks, wick holders, or DIY methods (like pencils with holes).
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Centering the wick ensures even burning.
9. Stirring Utensil
Use a dedicated spoon or wooden stick to mix in scent and color thoroughly.
Tip: Don’t use kitchen utensils unless they’re solely for candle making.
10. Scale
A digital kitchen scale helps you:
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Measure wax and fragrance precisely.
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Maintain consistency in your batches.
11. Glue Dots or Wick Stickers
To anchor the wick to the bottom of your container.
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Prevents the wick from floating or moving during pouring.
12. Protective Gear
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Apron or old clothes (wax stains)
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Gloves if you’re working with fragrance oils
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Newspaper or silicone mat to catch drips
13. Optional Add-ins
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Dried herbs or flowers (lavender, rose petals – only for container candles)
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Crystals or decorative stones (placed on top after wax begins to set)
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Labels and ribbons for gift or brand presentation
In this blog post, we discussed A Beginner’s Guide to DIY Candle Making.
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