Candle making is a fun and rewarding hobby! Here are some beginner-friendly tips to get you started on the right (and safe) waxy path:
🕯️ Basic Supplies You'll Need
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Wax: Soy wax is great for beginners—it's clean-burning and easy to work with.
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Wicks: Match wick size to your container size and wax type.
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Containers: Heat-safe jars or tins work best.
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Fragrance oils (optional): Designed for candle making—don’t use essential oils unless labeled safe for high heat.
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Colorants (optional): Use dyes made for candles.
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Double boiler or melting pot
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Thermometer
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Wick holders or chopsticks to center wicks
🔥 Candle Making Tips
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Use a thermometer
Temperature matters! Melt your wax slowly and avoid overheating. Most soy wax melts around 120–180°F, and you should pour it at 130–150°F depending on the brand. -
Preheat your containers
Warm jars help reduce sinkholes and frosting. -
Secure your wick
Use a bit of hot glue or a wick sticker to keep it centered. A crooked wick = uneven burn. -
Measure your fragrance
6–10% fragrance load is typical. Use a scale, not a spoon. -
Don’t pour too hot
Pouring wax that’s too hot can cause cracking, uneven tops, or sinkholes. -
Avoid bubbles
Stir gently and steadily when adding fragrance to avoid air bubbles. -
Cure your candles
Let them sit 1–2 weeks before burning for the best scent throw—especially soy wax. -
Trim wicks before burning
Keep the wick around 1/4 inch to prevent soot and large flames. -
Test, test, test
Burn tests help you make sure your candles are safe and perform well. -
Stay safe
Never leave melting wax unattended. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and work in a well-ventilated area.
🛠️ Fun Extras to Explore Later
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Wooden wicks for a cozy crackle
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Layered or marbled candles
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Molds for pillar candles
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Labels and custom packaging