How to make scented soy candles quickly & easily. A how-to guide to DIY candle making using pure essential oils.
How to make scented soy candles
I have a little bit of a craft obsession.
I’m not what you’d consider good at it but I still love cracking out the scissors and glue, colouring in, fabric, stitching, paper, painting – yes I would thrive as a kindy teacher in the craft section (because they all have a special section for crafting right?).
For my Birthday one year, strange one that I am, I asked for some wax and wicks to make my own candles.
I was very excited to receive them but actually forgot about it until a while later.
Spurred on by the excitement of finding a use for my jar collection, one rainy Saturday afternoon I did a bit of Googling of how to make scented soy candles then got straight to homemade candle making.
It was pretty straightforward to make soy wax candles at home – melt, pour, leave to set, but what I didn’t realise was that soy wax is a lot easier to work with than parafin wax, which I’d asked for.
It made nice homemade candles but soy wax makes them a much prettier white colour so that was what I tried next.
Disclaimer: When I originally wrote this post I didn’t know about the potentially harmful health effects of artificial fragrances (which you will see in some of the original images).
These days, when I make scented soy candles I use 100% pure essential oils.
Why DIY candles?
There are lots of reasons to make your own candles but my top ones are:
- Choose your own candle scent exactly as you like it.
- Make your candles whichever size you like in whichever container you like.
- It’s less expensive than buying fancy candles.
- You can reuse your favourite candle container.
What you need to make your own candles
Wax
Obviously, one of the essential ingredients of candle making is wax.
Make sure you get pure soy wax flakes and try to get non-GMO if possible.
There are lots of places to buy them online just do a Google or check out my resources below (contains affiliate links).
Containers
You will need something to make your candles in.
Glass jars, ceramics and even shells make beautiful homemade candles – just make sure that your item is heat-proof up to high temperatures.
Generally if something is oven-safe then you’re ok.
You can also re-use old candles.
How to get the wax out of old candles to reuse them
My homemade candle making started with seriously dead little glass votives that I’d had sitting in a drawer looking like this for years.
I never knew it was an easy task to clean them up like new but after reading a Pinterest tutorial, I was in the know.
The first step is to fill them with boiling water.
When I told mum about this after I’d done it, she warned that the glass can break if you pour the water straight into the glass jars.
Maybe heating them a little in some warm water would prevent this but mine didn’t break.
Leave the water to cool and the wax should lift to the top of the water.
Some of mine stayed at the bottom but a little nudge with a fork and they popped right out.
To get rid of the black soot marks I just gave them a little scrub with dishwashing liquid and warm water and they were as good as new.
I seriously can’t believe I didn’t do this sooner. They were destined for the bin in my mind.
Wicks
You can use cotton or wooden wicks. I’ve worked with both. It depends on the look you are trying to achieve.
Essential oils
Make sure you’re using 100% pure essential oils. Using artificial fragrance will give you a nice dose of some potentially nasty side-effects that are best avoided.
Glue or tape
This is to hold the wick to the bottom of the container.
Scissors
Scissors are to trim your wick.
Heat-proof container
This is for melting the wax in. You can use a pot or I prefer to use a pyrex, microwavable jug and do it in the microwave.
Stirrer
I used a paddle pop stick so I wouldn’t have to worry about cleaning it after.
Measuring cup
This is to measure your wax.
Workspace cover
It’s best to cover your work surface to make clean up a little easier. A big sheet of paper works perfectly.
How to make scented soy candles
Now come the technical parts of how to make soy candles.
Step one – the wicks
First up you have to add the wicks. Measure out the height just by holding it next to your container then add a few centimeters on the bottom and top.
To attach the wicks at the bottom I was very professional.
I used sticky tape. Just fold it around itself to make it double sided then secure it to the bottom of the jar.
Use a skewer to press the wicks down and stick it to the bottom.
You can get fancy little things to hold it there but sticky tape works so I’m not wasting money on something else.
A word of warning though – don’t try using a hot glue gun.
The glue will melt when you add the hot wax and the wick will float up from the bottom (yes I’m telling you this from experience).
Once it’s attached to the bottom you will need something to hold with wick taut and centered. You can wrap it around a skewer.
My bag clips were the perfect size to fit over the jars so I used them.
Alternatively, if you can get your hands on wood wicks they come with a little weighted stand that will hold the wick in place.
Step two – the wax
For the wax, you’ll need to work out the capacity of your jars then use double the amount of flakes.
For example, if you jars hold 1 cup of liquid then you will need to measure out 2 cups of wax flakes.
Pour them into a heat-proof jug and then microwave for 1 minute. Take them out, give them a stir and microwave again for 1 minute and stir.
I used a paddle pop stick for the stirring.
If they’re not melted then continue the microwave-stir 20 seconds a time until all the flakes have melted. Make sure you use an oven glove to take the jug out because it gets mighty hot – safety first!
Step three – scent the candles
How to choose your essential oils for homemade candles
When it comes to choosing your essential oils for your candle it can help to know a little of the science stuff.
Don’t worry it’s not too technical. In basic terms, include an oil from each of these families Top notes, Middle notes and Base notes.
Top note essential oils
These are the first oils you will smell when you smell a candle and they diccipate into the air first.
They’re also usually the less expensive of the oils. Just remember this is the smell you’ll get most when you sniff the candle before lighting it.
Here are some essential oils that are part of the Top Note family:
- Basil (Top – Middle)
- Bergamot (Top – Middle)
- Cinnamon
- Clary Sage (Top – Middle)
- Eucalyptus
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lemongrass (Top – Middle)
- Lime
- Mandarin
- Neroli (Top – Middle)
- Orange
- Peppermint
- Petitgrain
- Tea Tree (Top – Middle)
Middle note essential oils
These oils are a bit of a softer scent and give the creation the heart. You might not smell it at first but once the top note starts to evaporate their scent will come through.
Some middle note essential oils:
- Black Pepper
- Chamomile
- Geranium
- Juniper Berry
- Lavender
- Melissa (Middle – Top)
- Rosemary
Base Note essential oils
Essential oils that are categorised as base notes last a long time and evaporate very slowly.
They slow down the evaporation of the other oils in the scent mix too so are good to create a more lingering scent.
Some base note essential oils:
- Cedarwood
- Cinnamon (Can be top, middle or base)
- Clove
- Frankincense
- Jasmine
- Myrrh
- Neroli (Can be top, middle or base)
- Patchouli
- Rose
- Sandalwood
- Vanilla
- Ylang Ylang (Base – Middle)
How to create your blend
My personal recommendation is to write down which oils from each of the top, middle and base note lists that you like and then start mixing until you get a scent that you like.
Make sure you do an initial sniff, a sniff a few minutes later and then again about 15 minutes later. This will give you the full profile of top, base and middle notes.
Alternatively, there are a lot of resources out there on the emotional benefits of essential oils so if there is a particular emotional benefit you are after, for example, calming then search for ‘calming essential oils’ and create a combination that you like from there.
Make sure you keep track of how many drops you add of each as you add them.
I also recommend using ceramic or glass container for mixing the oils as plastic can absorb the scent.
Once you’ve stirred in your fragrance, pour the wax into your containers then leave them to set for at least 12 hours.
You will notice that some of mine have little cracks. That is because I wanted them to set quickly so I could write this post.
I popped them in the fridge when they were nowhere near set so I’m guessing the bits around the outside set first then the inside sank a little as it set.
The moral of the story – be patient.
Then it’s time to marvel at your perfect little creation. I was marvelling even more after an afternoon of shopping.
I saw a candle nearly exactly the same as this for $19 in one store and in others, bigger versions were selling for more than $50. I’m thinking maybe I should go into business.
How to make scented soy candles – video
They make a lovely gift especially considering you can tailor the container and ‘flavour’ to suit the person you’re giving them to.
Happy candle making!
What about you? What would you make a candle in and what’s your favourite candle scent?
How to make scented soy candles
Learn how to make scented soy candles at home.
Materials
- Glass jars or old candles in jars
- Boiling water
- Candle wicks
- Soy wax flakes
- Essential oils
Tools
- Sticky tape
- Skewers
Instructions
- If you are using old candles, pour the boiling water into the old containers and leave to cool.
- Remove the wax floating on the top.
- Use dishwashing liquid and hot water to clean up any excess wax or soot.
- Dry the glass containers.
- Cut small pieces of sticky tape and fold to make double-sided tape then place in the middle of the bottom of each jar.
- Cut the wicks so that about 4cm comes out the top of the jar.
- Use a skewer to press them into the sticky tape so they stick to the bottom.
- Place a skewer over the top and wrap the wick to hold it up in the middle.
- Measure out the soy wax flakes (you will need double the amount - eg if your candle is 1 cup capacity, you will need 2 cups of soy wax flakes).
- Place the flakes in a heat-proof jug and microwave for 1 minutes.
- Remove and stir then microwave for 1 minute again then stir.
- If there are still solid flakes, microwave for 20 seconds at a time until dissolved.
- Add the fragrance oil, stir and then pour the wax into the jars.
- Make sure the the wicks are in the centre then leave the wax to set for 12 hours.
- Trim the wicks to 1 inch.
Notes
Please exercise extreme caution when working with hot wax.
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What you need to make candles at home
About Claire Cameron
Claire Cameron
Nutrition and Wellness Coach, mum of 3 and creator of Claire K Creations, Claire Cameron is passionate about simplifying natural living for busy families.
Through good food, natural products & simple living she'll help you achieve better health and a happier planet in a quick, easy & affordable (but not hippie!) way.
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Thanks for the step-by-step, Claire, however I wanted to make a pretty important distinction that what you referenced as “essential oils” are in fact fragrance oils- a totally different beast onto itself. Yes, some think that fragrance oils are easier to handle when candle making and are definitely far easier on the wallet, but they are synthetically derived, so if you health conscious and would like to use the candles as aromatherapy, then plant-derived essential oils are the way to go, along with soy not paraffin wax, then you don’t have to worry about breathing in the carcinogens are they are evaporating into the air. Obviously this is more of a concern for indoor use or around kids or asthma sufferers. SO there’s my 2 cents, health and safety related. Hope it’s useful! *Obviously, different concentrations have to be used when incorporating essential rather than fragrance oils.
Thanks so much Xenia. I have been learning about essential oils recently. They have some amazing health benefits.
Can I add a few drops of essential oils to each container and pour in melted soy wax, stir gently, and therefore get several different scents from one batch of melted wax
Yes you definitely could do that Cindy. Good idea!
Hi if I have 230g of soy wax how much fragrance do I need to add for strongest scent please.
Hi Hannah. This is a bit of a how long is a piece of string question I’m afraid. It depends on the scents and how strong strong is for you. There should be a guide that came with your fragrance?
Hi, can we still receive replies on this thread?
Yes of course!
Hi, your tutorial is great! Do you have any advice on how you stop the condensation type appearance on glass jars when the soy candles have set? I’m having real problems with this. Thanks.
Thanks Liz. Do you mean on the inside like the wax has some bubbles in it?
Hi there, love the way you’ve explained and worded this, makes it very simple! This is probably a dumb qs, but is the tape or blue tac or whatever you decide to stick the wick down in the container with, is it safe to use when the candle burns right down? Like does it burn or smoke or anything??
Not a dumb question Gabe. Yes it could I never let it burn down quite that far just in case.
My wicks seem never to burn right what should i do?? Please help i promised my sister i would make a candle but sadly cant get it right. Thank you
I’m sorry to hear that Ronni. What do you mean when you say they don’t burn right?
Dear Claire,
Thanks a lot for the tutorial! It was really good idea to use the bag clips for holding the wicks!
Recently I started to use them as well.
Kindest regards,
Yunni
You’re welcome Yunni!
Hi everyone. I am the least crafty person on this earth but am going to give soy candle making a go. I have purchased fragrances not oils and was wondering how much I should put in per 500gm. Can someone help please?? Thank you all in advance
Hi Annie. The rough rule is about 30ml per 500g. Good luck!
I read your tutorial and bought what I needed. However, I was told by a person who made candles for a living that you should never microwave wax, as once it reaches a ‘flash point’ it has a very high chance of catching fire. So I went and bought a large aluminium wax melting pot, that came with a spout which makes it easy to just pour the melted wax into your molds or jars, etc. I’m going to try the sticky tape method of keeping the wicks at the bottom. However, I found this neat thing called ‘Wick Stickums’ which basically stick to the bottom of the wicks with the metal bottoms, so you don’t have to use a hot glue gun, and they stick the wick to the bottom of your jar or glass, cup, etc.
http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/wick-stickums-15mm.html
http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/wick-stickums-20mm.html
http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/aluminium-pouring-pot.html
I bought lots of scents, but I think for my first voyage into candle making, I’m gonna go with a plain lavender. I will let you know how it goes. :)
What a great idea Shanneene. The wax melting pot sounds like a very good thing too. I will look forward to hearing how you go.
I created one. I created a large one, and I ended up going with a Bergamot and Teakwood scent which smells divine :) I couldn’t get the sticky tape to work, so I ended up using blu-tack and it worked a treat :)
Oh that sounds so good Shanneene!
Hey.
I’ve made 3 batchs now. & I seem to be having some problems. :(((
I sourced all my materials off eBay.
The middle of mine sink even without being placed in the fridge.
Mine also don’t burn properly.
Could it be the wicks or wax it’s self ?
I do put oil in them & also give them colour by adding crayons.
Hi Sarah. You do sometimes have to pour more wax if they sink a little but the burning I would say could be the wicks. What sort of wicks did you buy? Sorry they’re not working out for you!
Thanks so much for the instructions- Just purchased all that I need for the Natural Candle Supply website that you provided- SO EXCITED! For it to all turn up and give it a go! Hate to think how much I spend on candles- This will certainly help! I struggle daily with migraines so burn a lot of “aromatherapy oils”- I went off my aromatherapy chart in the way of selecting fragrances! CANT WAIT to chill out to some relaxing scents.
That’s a great idea to help choose the fragrances. I hope you like them!
Also, just remember not to try trimming the wick with the wick trimmer if the wick has never been burned :)
Oh good tip Chris!
Hi! What’s the size of the cup of you candles?
Hi. Mine were quite small – probably only about 1/3 of a cup
Hi Claire,
Thanks for your instructions, I made my first batch of candles today. I made three candles and all 3 have sunk at the top near the wick. I ran out of wax each time (I am a bit impatient when it comes to measuring) so I had to pour then melt more wax (which only took about 3 mins), would this be the reason? Do you pour the wax when it reaches a certain temperature?
Thanks heaps!
S
Yes that seems to be a common problem Sarah. I find you need to let the first pour settle a little and then top it up. I hope that helps.
Using those Ikea clips as wick holders is pure genius! I’ve been struggling with icy-pole sticks and clothes pegs to hold the wicks in place, while I had a bag of clips sitting unused in the drawer. Thanks for the tip!
You’re very welcome! Isn’t it funny how it’s the simple things we don’t think of?
I just read the post from the kindy teacher & it reminded me of an experiment I did in candle making to entertain some kiddies in the school holidays. We were living in a rural area at the time so it meant a significant delay to order products. I used what we had at home or could buy in the supermarket. I used copha instead of wax, grated a small amount of the kids crayons to add colour, empty jam jars, & used some fragrance oils that we had at home or could buy locally. For the wick we used a 3 ply braided cotton string that I found laying around the house & coated it with melted copha & let set. The kids loved it & got creative with fragrances & colours…even coloured layers. All in all an inexpensive fun activity to do with the kiddies. They were really proud of their creations.
What a brilliant idea Tracey. I bet they loved it!
Hi. I’ve been making soy melts for quite some time now. I’ve not had much luck in candle making. The melts are easy once you’ve worked out which soy wax blend to use & the pour temps, the percentage of fragrance, & pour temp. I’ve combined all this knowledge in to my candle making experiments & have found that the biggest hurdle is establishing what type of wick to use. The wick effects how the candle burns ie the size of the melted wax pool, the scent throw, & the burn time. This is why I’ve stuck to making melts, less variables. Can anyone suggest a simple guideline for establishing wick size? Thank you in advance :)
Good question Tracey! I read that cotton was the best type to use.
Hi Claire, just wanted to mention to Irene that I’m currently researching essential oils in soy wax candles and a lot of info says that they don’t recommend essential oils as they can catch on fire very easily? I am interested in making a essential oil candle but currently researching still.
Thanks for that Deb! Yes I think you need to use the special candle scents.
Hi Claire, thank you so much for posting this recipe! Like yourself, I love the arts and crafts, I am a Kinder teacher and yes there is definitely an art and craft corner in my classroom haha! I have been wanting to get into candle making for a long while now, but hadnt quite found the right recipe to follow. Yours is amazing and exactly what I was looking for, simple, easy to follow and includes photos. I’ve ordered my very first kit and cannot wait to get into it! I just have one question regarding the scents and how much/how many drops go into the mixture?
Erin :)
Hi Erin. Yay! Now I can totally imagine the arts and crafts corner. I can’t wait until my little one gets into it. That is a tricky question. It was a bit of trial and error with the scents and it depends how strong you like your candle. I would start with just a couple of drops per 100ml of wax. Sorry I can’t be more specific. Happy candle making!
this looks like so much fun, i recently purchased some (really expansive) candles but have been afraid to light them for fear of wasting them (i know what a waste)!!!! so this seems perfect for me. just one question about the wax… which type of soy wax did you use because i looked on the natural candle supplies website that you gave and there were multiple types. also, roughy how many candles will a 1kg bag of wax flakes make? thanks soon much:)
Hi Rachel. Oh I know the feeling not wanting to waste the expensive candles. I would go for the advanced soy wax flakes. Now this is just an estimate but 1kg of flakes should make about 500ml of liquid wax. Happy candle making!
tThanks claire!!!! i’ve been doing some reading up on this and some places mentioned that if there is no metal tab and the wick burns to low it can heat the container or the surface it is sitting on. have you experienced any problems with this using sticky tape?? THANKS!
Hi Rachel. I don’t think I’ve paid enough attention to it when it gets low sorry. I can see that could be a problem I guess if it burns right down to the tape. Maybe best to make a new one before it gets that low :-)
Hi! Claire
Do you have a tip with regards to how to make the flame glow steady without flickering too much.
I make soy candles in mason jars or in cups.
Thanks
Jenny.
Hi Jenny. The only thing I can think of is keeping the wick trimmed short. I hope that helps!
Hey, about to make some candles for Christmas gifts. How did you work out how much fragrance to add? Is there a formula you used or did you just put a random amount in?
Hi Alex. I wish I could tell you a formula but I randomly added just a few drops. Good luck!
Thanks heaps :) ill give it a shot & just hope for the best!
No problem Alex. Good luck!
Once again, I don’t know what im doing wrong. My candles keep setting on fire. Ild like to successfully make them. Also what does “flashpoint” mean?
Hi Irene. I’m sorry this keeps happening but I’m not sure why. I haven’t heard of ‘flashpoint’ before.
Hi I made a candle a few weeks ago. when I lit it after a couple of minutes it set on fire. Why is that? Ild like to continue making them but only if I find out what ive done wrong.
Irene I’m not sure about that. Could it be the type of wick or the scent? Was it special candle scent?
what type of soy wax do you use?
Hi Jess. If you click through the wax links you can see the one I used. Hope that helps!
Hi Claire, I found your blog a few months ago now and have been making my candles since then … even getting orders from family and friends!! One thing I’ve come across with some candles, after a little while, they end up with a white ring around the outer edge at top of the vessel. Looks like hardened dry wax but its not as it still feels the same as the rest.
Do you have any idea what may cause this?
Hi Tammie. So glad you like it! That is really strange. I’m not sure what causes it but I did a bit of a Google and it says something to do with temperature changes. Are you using colours?
Hi there, my mum found a new passion in candle making and she unfortunately suddenly passed away earlier this month. She was selling them also so I’ve decided to keep her passion going! I have the recipes but not the method so Thankyou so much I can keep doing this for mum. Also with the coloring of them you can get special candle coloring. Mum had made some vibrant blue ones and they looked great! Thanks again ‘mothers love’ can continue :-)
I’m so sorry about your mum Bec but that’s wonderful that you’re keeping her passion alive. I’m so glad I can help and thanks for the colouring tip!
Hi Claire, Love your tutorial and made my first candles last night and now my daughter and I are hooked. /they turned out great and are so easy, we couldn’t believe it.
I was wondering if you could tell me where you bought your wick trimmer and a price please? I live in regional Qld so most stuff I have to order online but I can’t seem to find anyone in Aust that sells them. All the ones I have found say they can’t be used on unburnt wicks. Any help would be great.
Thank you
Hi Heather. I’m so glad you both enjoy it! I’m sorry but all I can remember is that I bought it at a little gift shop when I was with my mum but I have no idea where it was. I found one on Aussie candle supplies for you though so hope that helps! http://www.aussiecandlesupplies.com.au/wick-trimmer-p-1652.html
I’ve read your candle making as I’ve just started myself. But we are told to use two different waxes one for jars, candles and one for the moulds?
I want to try and find some fragrances to buy?
Hi Angela. I just use the one type of wax. If you follow the link in the post you can see where I bought my fragrances. I thought they were very good to buy from.
Hi Claire, I’ve just read your post about making soy candles and thought it was great. Like everyone else I love candles too and have made a few in the past and there’s been a lot of trial and error along the way! After a couple of hand surgeries and 3/4 years of not making candles, now that I’ve read your article it’s made me want to give it another go.
Apart from the wonderful finished results, I find it so therapeutic especially if using relaxing or invigorating oils, mmmmmmm……………
Whenever I made candles I always made sure that whatever container I was using was warm, not hot, just ‘aired’ if you like. So that the wax isn’t being poured into a cold container, this helps to prevent cracking, shrinking away from the sides and from getting the ‘bloom’ which sometimes forms on the top of the candle. If all else fails, once the wax is fully set, then a second-pour usually sorts out any slight imperfections. Using wax left over from the batch you made, re-melt and very gently pour a small layer on top of the candle to fill in any cracks or cover any ‘bloom.’ Ensuring that the wax is melted to the correct temperature of course so that it adheres to the already set wax. Temperature is very important, correct melt temp and pour temp.
And being soy wax everything you use, utensils, pans, jugs, jars, votives, etc., etc., everything is completely washable, as are any spillages. Hot, soapy water and it’s all washed away, wonderful. Much better than paraffin wax or bees wax, although bees wax makes such nice candles too. I like the sheets which are so easy to roll.
I think your idea of using sticky tape to fix the wick to the bottom of the container is brilliant Claire. I used wick sustainers, but they won’t be necessary using your method – great tip! Now I need to find some natural candle fragrance oils here in the UK as I’d been using pure essential oils in the past. I don’t like the artificial fragrances :-( It’s autumn here, so what better time than now to start making candles and have them burning throughout the house to make the place cheery!!
Thank you for the inspiration.
Hi Violet. Thanks so much for the temp tips! Very handy to know. Yes that’s great that you can wash it all up. I had a nightmare time when I used paraffin wax. I hope you find the fragrances. Thanks for such a great comment.
Hi there – well I have just poured my first candle – if it works (and why shouldn’t it lol) then I am on my way. I love and burn candles all the time. I use the melts which a friend makes and my family buy me the candles from Dusk – they are so expensive. So wish me luck :-)
Good luck Alison! I’m sure they will be perfect.
Hi Claire,
Thanks so much for sharing this candle making post, I have made some Coconut & Lime candles and it was so easy!
You’re welcome Madeleine! That sounds like a lovely combo.
Congrats on your beautiful job! I love candles and I´m trying to make my own soy candles, but I have to say that here in Brazil finding the right support to make them is quite difficult. We are not used to make them and the supplies we have here are not good enough. In my opinion for example the most difficult part is how to choose the wick. :D
That would be hard Kedyma. I hope you can find the right supplies!
I just made some beautiful soy candles myself. I did struggle with getting the wick to stay on the bottom though, the sticky tape didn’t really work for me. Any other suggestions? To remove wax from the old glass containers I just placed them in the freezer. The wax shrinks and just pops out then I washed them as normal. Can’t wait to burn my first candle. I think my favourite so far is vanilla & cinnamon but also made Asian Pear & Lily and I couldn’t resist trying the Monkey Fart, which despite its name smells nice as an oil. Thanks for all the tips and hints. Wendy
Wendy I did have that problem with a few. Superglue works well but don’t use a hot glue gun like I did. The glue melted when I put the wax in!
Hi Wendy, You could try blu-tack (the white version!), I’ve found this works extremely well and is really easy to remove afterwards if you’re re-using the container.
Hope that helps. V
Great tip thanks Violet!
Nice post and the information in the blog is really useful and I will definitely look toward the experiment of soy wax candles.
Wow, I didn’t know you could make your own scented candles right at home :-) I found some candle making stuff here on Amazon and I was wondering if this is good enough and not too expensive? Thanks for your tutorial :-)
You sure can Suzanne! Maybe hunt around for the stuff that’s inexpensive for your first go then when you’re a pro buy the more expensive stuff?
Hi Claire,
Thank you for your post. I can’t believe how simple it is to do! I am definitely going to give it a go.. was wondering with the wick – i’ve had a look on the website you mentioned.. Did you get a spool of wick and what thickness did you get? http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/Candle-Making/Candle-Wicks/HTP-Wicks/?cid=512
Thanks !
Hannah
Hi Hannah. From memory mine came with just a big piece of wick and it was about 2cm thick. Hope that helps!
I really enjoyed reading about your candle making foray followed by the comments section. I live in Arizona and found the following site has an extensive “how to” section that you might find useful. It covers questions regarding different types of waxes/soy, dyes, scents, containers, other basic supplies and safety precautions. I can’t wait to get started.
lonestarcandlesupply.com/
(877) 956-3192
Find High Quality Candle Supplies.
Thanks Dianne. I’ll have a look. I definitely need some more tips!
i love making candles great to make but when i make the glass jars
when they set i get white marks on the glass jars so do you know what i doing wrong i tried
every thing cant make it out why
than you Joan
Hi Joan. I’m very sorry but I don’t know what could be the cause of that!
Hi there Claire i have just made my first batch of soy candles. I used pommegrante and sage scent. A couple of questions. What does C- Soy flakes mean and do you melt the crayon and how many do you use per pour.? My house smells fantastic ..i cant wait to see how they have turned out in the morning. I added a product called container maker….it came with my kit. Do you use this? You add it in with the fragrance and stir it around before you pour. Many thanks Suzanne
Hi Suzanne. Ooh that sounds delish! I haven’t heard of that product sorry. With the amount, it depends on what sizw candle you’re making. The wax should include instructions for that. With the one I used, you needed 2 cups wax for one cup.
Hi Claire, Love your candles!
I am a candle-making newbie and have been getting condensation on the inside of my glass containers when using either soy or paraffin wax. I have tried warming the containers before I fill them but nothing seems to make any difference. Can you tell me what I am doing wrong please? Many thanks.
Hi Sue. I’m sorry I’m not too sure about that one. The only thing I can think of is maybe the temp of your kitchen? I would say if it’s too cold that might cause condensation?
Hi Claire, I too have just started making soy candles and loving it. I cant help but wonder if there are any type of glass jars, cups, jugs etc that wouldn’t be safe to burn a candle in. Is there a rule you follow? Thanks
Hi Tania. Hmm I’m not sure. I would say that any glass jar is fine. Ceramics it probably depends on the type. If it’s oven-safe I’d say then it’s fine.
Thanks for this, Claire! I followed this tutorial to make soy candles today for my blog, but I put them into teacups. So good and easy to understand! And they smell soooo delicious. You are the candle master.
http://kirstenlearns.com
Thanks Kirsten! I’m glad you liked them and great idea using tea cups!
Wow Claire I love your post! I have often thought about making candles, especially soy candles as they are beautiful to look at and smell. We had a black out recently and my soy candle supply has now diminished. With your easy instructions I will get some supplies and have a go (French Vanilla is my favourite too). Have you tried making citronella candles yet?
Thanks Merryn I’m glad I could help! No I haven’t but that would be great.
Can you use bees wax..instead of soy?
I’m not sure Renee, I’ve never done it.
Great site,you people are really up on the candle making
I love it.
Thanks Mel!
You can buy all your supplies at a great price on ebay
Do you have any tips if I don’t have a microwave?
You could melt the wax using a double boiler on the stove.
Great idea melting the wax in the microwave! I just got some candle making supplies from a friend and here I was about to try to find pots to melt the wax in on the stove. I will be trying the microwave method instead tomorrow!
Have fun!
Hi. I’m also just getting into candle making and have been experimenting over the last few weeks. I’m yet to get a decent scent throw, however, I have just been using fragrance oils that I use for my burners. Maybe that’s the problem? In regards to colouring the wax, I tried food colouring and it does not work that well. I got quite a lot of colour bleeding and it looked terrible. Ive experimented with crayons and that turned out ok.
Hi Tracey. Hmm that could be it. Great idea with the crayons!
you cant use food dye, it must be special dye for candle making only
Thanks Mersini!
Hi Claire
I’d like to make some soy candles for my wedding, which is in three weeks. I read on another blog that you can’t use the candles for two weeks after making them. Is this your experience as well?
Thanks!
Hi Rachel. I’ve not heard that. I know it’s best to leave them at least 24 hours but I’ve used mine before 2 weeks. Happy nearly wedding day!!!
Your candles look delicate enough to eat :) May I ask how long the candles burn for and are the fragrances/oils used phthalate free? Also are the wicks cotton? Sorry for all the questions but it gave me a great idea.
Hi Laura. Sorry I’m not sure about any of that except yes the wicks I used were cotton.
Great page Claire, thank you.
Bought some soy flakes ages ago- didn’t come with any instructions!?
Going to attempt some Clary sage scented ones this afternoon!!
Rather excited!!
You’re welcome Faye! Good luck!
I want to use wild crafted organic essential oils. What would be wrong with that? I don’t want to get a pre made fragrance. Can someone speak to that?
Hi SJM. I’m sorry but I don’t know enough about them to give any tips.
Essential oils are fine to use just start at 6% as some may ‘upset’ your wax.
Thanks Sandie!
Hi Claire,
Thanks for writing this post, I’m really looking forward to giving it ago! Just wondering if you or anyone knows where I can buy soy wax and other candle making bits and pieces from in QLD, Brisbane or around brisbane south or north?
Thanks, Jasmine :-)
Hi Jasmine. No problem! This is where I got mine from http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/#Candle-Making
Hi Jasmine, I purchased a natural soy wax from aussiecandlesupplies – email them at info@aussiecandlesupplies.com.au
I had to pay postage, however.
Thanks for sharing Corry.
Hi Claire!
Love your post! How much fragrance oil does one need to use for a candle? What’s the formula for the amount we need? Also, where does one buy wax flakes?
Thanks so much!
Ange :)
Hi Ange. You’re welcome! I got my wax from here http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/#Candle-Making
As to the formula… it’s a bit of a trial and error really because it depends how strong you want it. I added a few drops to my mixture.
Have you added any colouring to the candles? Would you just use food dye?
I haven’t added colour before I’m sorry. I assume food dye would work.
Hi, great article – thank you!
Just wanted to add a note that I am sure I read recently that food dye is not suitable for candle making. I have no experience with this myself but I am sure I remember reading that you need a different kind of colouring for it to work well.
Thanks for that John! I will have to do some research into the colours.
I haven’t done it but been told to add crayons in the melting process to colour, food dye is water based so it wont mix with the wax.
Very interesting Jay. I’d love to hear how it turns out if you try it.
Hi we have made some in tea cups but the wax has slightly come away from the sides of the cups. Any ideas what we did wrong.
Hi Joanne. Sometimes as it sets it shrinks a little and you can have to top it up a little. I think it happens if it cools to quickly.
How much of the fragrance oil did you use ??
Hi Andrea. It really depends how strong a scent you want and what fragrance you are adding. I just used a couple of drops for mine.
Thanks so much for posting this, it’s so simple to follow! Quick question – do you know a cheap place to buy the wicks and wax flakes from? I just want a small/cheap amount to start with to make sure I can actually do it haha!
You’re welcome Kayla. This is where I got mine http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/#Candle-Making
I just bought a small bag of soy wax, wicks, and scent at Hobby Lobby. I paid $12.00 for all (I used my phone coupon).
I’ll have to look there next time Christine. Thanks for the tip.
Wonderful easy explanation, i think Im going to give it a go .
Thank you heaps
Jo
You’re welcome Jo!
Great tip for cleaning the glass votives, thank you!
I really could not believe how easy it is to make candles at home. I made scented candles in teacups (here: http://hodgepodgecraft.com/2013/07/how-to-make-scented-candles-in-a-teacup-a-step-by-step-tutorial/) and have included a tip at the end about how you can get a smooth finish on the top, even if your candle sets with cracks initially…
Ooh lovely thanks Hodge Podge!
Hi I have just had a little lesson with a friend on making soy candles and she went to a class. They told her to add 10percent qty of fragrance per candle. So 400gm candle add 40ml. My house smells fab and the oil came from a candle supply place. French pear, oh it’s smells amazing and for the few dollars of cost for the fragrance it’s well worth it. The 400gm candle retails for $30.00 Aussie and cost less than $5.00 I am very happy.
Thanks for the tip Stacey. Isn’t it crazy how inexpensively you can make them compared to the price in the shops?!
Hi Claire!
How much oil do u use per candle?
Thanks so much! : )
Hi Jackie. That’s a good question.. I just used a few drops in the jug which had 2 cups of melted wax.
I just made two candles in containers that had candles before. It only took me about 20 minutes using the microwave. I used newspaper to lay my tools on, so there was no surface cleanup. I wiped out my Pyrex cup and the metal spoon I used with paper towels, and stuck them in the dishwasher. This is incredibly easy. A question: I used about a tablespoon of candle scent in my candles, about 8 oz each, and they don’t seem to be that scented. Do these candles really smell when they burn or is it barely noticeable? I want it to be able to tell when they burn.
I think it depends on the type of scent. The one I used was pretty strong and I could smell it well. Are you using special candle scent?
i add about 8 drops :)
Thanks Koreena!
This is great, thanks for the instructions! I just spent a small fortune on candle making stuff!
Just wondering if I wanted to add colour would I add it when I add the scent?
Thanks :)
You’re welcome!
Have u tried to add colour? How did it turn out?
Hi Sarah. I haven’t yet. That will have to be my next challenge.
Can’t wait to try making soy candles! Suggestions about types of oils to use and types to avoid and why or why not? And, how much oil do you add? Thank you!
Hi Jen. I’m not 100% sure. I usually just add a couple of drops. I bought my oils from here http://www.naturalcandlesupply.com.au/#Candle-Making. It’s best to buy the ones that are made for candles. As far as what to avoid etc… depends what you’re after. I was making one for a pregnant friend so did some googling to find out which oils weren’t good for the bub. Lavender is safe!
I’m so excited to try this! I had no idea it was so easy – these look beautiful and I bet they smell amazing.
Look forward to seeing yours Stephanie!
This is great, Claire! I have always wanted to try making my own candles. You have inspired me to give it a try. :)
Yay Jen! They’re really easy to make, you’ll love it!
I spend a fortune on candles and I’m always resentful every time I do because I know they must be cheap to make. What lovely candles and they turned out so well. I’m going to have to try this xx
Yes you will Charlie!
I’m candle crazy! My favourite is by Tuberose Rouge by Diptyque! You did a great job-what is your favourite scent Claire?
That sounds rather fancy Lorraine! I’m not sure which is my favourite yet but I do love classic vanilla.
YAY! Welcome to the soy candle-making bandwagon. You will now be addicted forever – I speak from experience. Isn’t it shocking how much those things cost when they’re so easy to make!? I’m so glad you shared this, because I didn’t know the tip about how to clean old jars – I’ll give this a try next time.
Yep you can recycle all the ones you finish with! So crazy and I can’t stop they’re just so much fun to make! I love that they don’t really look homemade either.
Thanx Claire for the tip
Can you check this site ribbonwick.com
and tell me what do u think about refilling these beauties ?
Happy 2015
N
Hi Nabil,
You’re very welcome. I’m not 100% sure on these. You would need to find the special wick but I couldn’t find anything from a quick Google. They look amazing though!
Sorry I can’t be more help.
Claire
Hi, I’m new to the homemade scented candle business and I have a budding question, please pardon me if this question has been asked and answered before. Can someone please tell me which is better for scented candles Tin or Glass Jars??? does any affect the way the fragrance is released or the intensity of the fragrance??? I look forward to your responses.
Cheers
Ken
Hi Ken. I would be more inclined to use glass.
Hi! I recently found a brand new 4 pound box of soy flakes at a local goodwill store for $1.99. I never made candles before but couldn’t pass up a bargain!! I used this site for instructions & bought several really cool small distressed tin containers from Michael’s, on sale of course!! The candles are beautiful & the little tins worked out perfectly for candles, no leaks or any problems at all. I’m inclined to take a risk, if I think something I like might work. Hope this helps with your question about tin containers.
Happy candle making!! And thanks Claire for sharing your recipe…
Brenda
What a bargain Brenda! That’s awesome and you’re very welcome.