How to make scented candles at home

Key steps

• Make homemade scented candles as easy gifts.

• Choose your favorite essential oil scents.

• Choose the type of wax you prefer.

• Old jam jars are great for candle moulds.

• Use an old saucepan.

There are many reasons to have candles lit around your home – they create a relaxing atmosphere and add a fresh scent to welcome your visitors. Making scented candles is also a great way to add a touch of your favourite fragrance to your home while keeping to a budget. Follow our guide on homemade scented candles to add that spa-like feel to your own home. 

When using beeswax for homemade scented candles, adding two tablespoons of coconut oil will help them dry more evenly – and smell great!

What will you need when making scented candles?

When you're making scented candles, there are some basic ingredients you'll need, which include:

• Wax

• Cooking thermometer

• Cotton candle wicks

• A jar or candle mould

• Essential oils

• An old saucepan

• Scissors

• Pencil

• Tape.

Homemade scented candles best scents

Adding a few drops of essential oils to your melted wax is a perfect way to take your homemade candles to the next level. Here are some scent ideas to get you started:

• Add scents like sandalwood or vanilla for a warm, comforting fragrance.

• Add rose or citrus fruits for a refreshing and uplifting scent.

• Make your candle practical and pretty with fragrances like lavender, lemongrass or peppermint, which act as natural insect repellents.

In order to prevent accidents with the hot wax, wear protective gloves. Don't forget to keep your work area well-ventilated when making homemade scented candles. Take care when using sharp tools. Never leave a lit candle unattended.

How to make scented candles

There are three important things to do before making scented candles:

• Choose your wax.

• Choose a mould.

• Choose the essential oils required to create the scent you want.

Once you’ve made your choices, use these 6 easy-to-follow steps on how to make your own scented candles:

1. In an old saucepan, melt the wax required to fill your mould or jar over a gentle heat. Let it cool to 140 °F, ready for pouring.

2. Attach your wick to the wick holder and drop it to the bottom of your mould. Secure it in the centre of your mould by tying it to a pencil laid across the top.

3. It only takes a few drops of essential oils to make homemade scented candles smell great, just add your chosen scent to the wax before pouring it into the mould.

4. Using heat-protective gloves, carefully pour in your wax.

5. Let the candle set for around 2 hours or until it’s firm.

6. Cut the wick to approximately 1cm above the top of the candle.

Fill your house with amazing scents and a soothing atmosphere by experimenting with other combinations. Homemade candles make thoughtful and beautiful gifts, and the blend of scents you can create is limitless!

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