Creating Wedding Candles: A Step-By-Step Guide For Couples

Candles are a popular choice for wedding decor, adding a romantic and timeless touch to any celebration. If you're looking to create your own wedding candles, you'll be glad to know that it's a relatively simple process that can be easily customized to match your wedding theme and colours. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to make your own wedding candles, from choosing the right materials to adding your personal touches.

Choosing a wax type: beeswax, soy, paraffin, palm, or gel

When making your own wedding candles, there are several types of wax to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Here is an overview of the properties of beeswax, soy, paraffin, palm, and gel wax to help you decide which type is best suited for your wedding candle project:

Beeswax:

• Beeswax is an all-natural product derived from bees during the honey-making process, giving it a subtle, sweet fragrance.
• It is considered more eco-friendly than some other options but is not vegan-friendly.
• Beeswax is a harder, more solid wax, making it suitable for container candles or unscented pillars.
• It has a higher melting point, which can make it more difficult to work with and requires careful monitoring during the melting process.
• Beeswax candles have a long burn time and produce a warm-toned, smoke-free flame.
• The natural golden color and subtle honey scent of beeswax candles make them a classic, elegant choice.

Soy Wax:

• Soy wax is made from soybeans, a natural, and renewable source, making it an eco-friendly option.
• It is usually more affordable than beeswax and is easy to work with, especially for beginners.
• Soy wax has a soot-free burn and burns slower than paraffin wax, making it a great value.
• It is well-suited for container candles and is an excellent scent carrier, resulting in pure-smelling scented candles.
• Soy wax typically comes in the form of flakes and can be melted in a microwave or a double boiler.

Paraffin Wax:

• Paraffin wax is the most widely used type of wax in the candle-making industry due to its affordability and versatility.
• It is a byproduct of the petroleum industry, which has raised some environmental concerns.
• Paraffin wax holds color and fragrance well, making it suitable for highly saturated, colorful, and scented candles.
• It has various melting points, making it versatile for creating different types of candles, from containers to pillars.
• Paraffin wax is not considered the most eco-friendly option, and if not properly cared for, it can create soot.

Palm Wax:

• Palm wax has gained popularity due to its clean-burning properties and eco-friendly, sustainable nature.
• It is a strong, firm, and durable wax, making it ideal for freestanding candles.
• Palm wax is more expensive compared to other types of wax but produces high-quality candles with a long burn time.
• It carries scent well, making it suitable for scented, freestanding candles such as pillars.

Gel:

• Technically, gel is not a wax but a mixture of resin and mineral oil that creates a see-through look.
• It is ideal for decorative, clear container candles as you can add small objects like dried flowers or seashells for a unique appearance.
• Gel candles have a very bright light, almost twice as bright as regular wax candles, and a slow burn.
• Similar to paraffin candles, gel candles release soot.

The type of wax you choose will depend on your specific requirements, such as budget, fragrance strength, eco-consciousness, and the type of candle you want to create. Each wax has its pros and cons, so consider your priorities and the overall experience you want to create for your wedding day.

Selecting a wick type: ECO, hemp, or wood

When it comes to selecting a wick for your wedding candles, there are a few types to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose between ECO, hemp, or wood wicks:

ECO wicks are made from a combination of cotton and paper. They are a good choice for beginner candle makers as they are easy to work with and readily available. ECO wicks are known for their consistent burn and ability to throw scent well. When using ECO wicks, it is important to trim them before each use to ensure a clean and even burn.

Hemp wicks, as the name suggests, are made from hemp fibre. They are a natural option and produce a consistent, steady flame. Hemp wicks are often used in beeswax candles and are known for their low smoke output. These wicks are also known for their ability to burn cleanly, without producing excess soot. Like ECO wicks, hemp wicks should be trimmed regularly to maintain optimal performance.

Wood wicks have gained popularity in recent years, especially for those seeking a unique, rustic charm for their wedding candles. Wood wicks create a soothing crackling sound when burning, reminiscent of a mini campfire. They are well suited for natural waxes like soy and have the added benefit of being easy to trim, as they require less maintenance than cotton wicks. Wood wicks also tend to have a good scent throw, enhancing the fragrance of your wedding candles.

When selecting a wick type, consider factors such as the type of wax you are using, the desired burn characteristics, and the overall aesthetic of your wedding candles. Each wick type has its own advantages, and your choice will depend on your specific requirements and preferences. Be sure to test your candles with the chosen wicks to ensure optimal performance and to make any necessary adjustments.

Adding scent: essential oils or blends

Adding scent to your wedding candles is a great way to make them unique and memorable. Here are some detailed instructions on how to add essential oils or blends to your DIY wedding candles:

Choosing the Right Essential Oil

First, select an essential oil or blend that appeals to your scent preferences. Popular options include lavender, grapefruit, eucalyptus, sweet pea fragrance oil, tobacco and bay leaf fragrance oil, and coconut fragrance oil. You can also create custom blends by mixing and matching different oils to layer fragrances. However, it is important to consider the potency of the oils. While mellower oils like ylang-ylang and sandalwood are great for aromatherapy, you may find their scent lacking for candles. Opt for oils with a strong, noticeable scent that will not dissipate quickly over time.

Amount of Essential Oil to Use

The amount of essential oil you need depends on the desired scent strength and the size of your candles. A good rule of thumb is to use 2 teaspoons of essential oil for every 4 ounces of melted wax. This ratio will give you a roughly 6% dilution, which is often considered the optimal amount for scented candles. However, you can adjust this ratio based on your preferences and the size of your candles. For example, if you are making 8-ounce candles, you might use 4 teaspoons of essential oil. Remember that using too much oil can weigh down the wax, so it's important to find the right balance.

Adding Essential Oil to the Wax

Now, let's talk about the process of adding the essential oil to your wedding candles. Here are the steps to follow:

• Prepare the Wax: Start by melting your chosen wax (such as soy wax or beeswax) in a double boiler or a pot over low to medium heat. Stir the wax occasionally to prevent clumping. Soy wax should be heated to 185°F, while beeswax typically has a higher melting point.
• Add the Essential Oil: Once your wax has reached the appropriate temperature, it's time to add the essential oil. Remove the wax from the heat source and let it cool slightly. The ideal temperature for adding essential oils is around 160°F to 185°F. Too much heat can destroy the active compounds in the oils and reduce their scent. Stir the essential oil into the wax for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it is well combined.
• Prepare the Containers: While the wax is cooling, prepare your candle containers. You can use mason jars, tin containers, or glass jars. It is recommended to gently heat the containers before pouring the wax to help the wax adhere better. You can do this by using a blow dryer or placing the containers in a preheated oven at 120°F for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat the containers.
• Add the Wick: Center a wick at the bottom of each container using a wick sticker or hot glue. You can use ECO wicks, hemp wicks, or wood wicks, depending on your preference. Ensure the wick is secure and doesn't lean on the side of the container. You can use a wick holder or sandwich the wick between two chopsticks or pencils to keep it upright.
• Pour the Wax: Once your wax has cooled to the recommended temperature (around 100°F-130°F for soy wax), it's time to pour it into the prepared containers. Pour slowly and carefully to avoid any mess or unevenness.
• Cure the Candles: Allow your candles to cure for at least 24 hours, or up to 3-5 days, before lighting them. This curing process ensures that the fragrance has time to set properly and that the wax hardens completely.

Tips for Success

• Always do your research to ensure the essential oils you choose are safe for candle making and will not cause any fire hazards. Some essential oils have lower flash points and can evaporate when added to hot wax, so use them with caution.
• Experiment with different amounts and types of essential oils, wicks, containers, and brands of wax to find the perfect combination for your wedding candles.
• Store your candles in a cool, dry place, and keep them covered when not in use to prevent the scent from fading.
• If you want to add colour to your candles, you can use candle dye or shave a small amount of coloured wax dye block and add it to the melted wax, stirring until combined.

Preparing the mould or container

Firstly, select the appropriate mould or container for your candles. You can choose from a variety of options, such as glass jars, metal tins, or even silicone moulds. If you're using a container, make sure it can withstand heat and has a wide enough opening for easy pouring. Clean the container with isopropyl alcohol and a paper towel to remove any dust or residue.

Next, prepare your wick by cutting it to the desired length. The length of the wick will depend on the size of your container, but it's always better to have a longer wick that you can trim later. Some wicks come with a metal tab at the bottom, which can be glued or stuck to the centre of the container. If your wick doesn't have a tab, you can use an old candle-maker's trick: dip the end of the wick into melted wax and quickly adhere it to the centre of the container.

Now, it's time to secure the wick in place. You can use skewers, popsicle sticks, or clothespins to hold the wick in the centre of the container. Make sure the wick is straight and taut to ensure an even burn. You can also wrap the excess wick around a pencil or a stick to keep it in place.

Before pouring the wax, make sure your container is on a level surface and protected by newspaper or paper towels in case of spills. Have your melted wax ready in a pouring pitcher or melting pot, and carefully pour it into the container, being careful not to overflow.

Finally, allow the wax to cool and harden completely. This may take a few hours, depending on the size of your candle. Once it's solid, you can trim the wick to the desired length, usually about 1/4 inch.

Your mould or container is now ready for the next steps in candle-making! Remember to take your time and enjoy the process of creating your own wedding candles.

Melting and pouring the wax

Preparing the Wax for Melting:

• Measure out the desired amount of wax flakes, pellets, or chunks. You can use a kitchen scale to weigh the wax if you want to be precise.
• Place the wax in a melting pot or pourer. If you're working with larger quantities, a heat-safe container can be used.

Melting the Wax:

• Create a double boiler by placing the melting pot or container in a larger pot filled with water. This ensures even melting without overheating the wax.
• Heat the wax over medium-low heat until it reaches a temperature of around 180°F (82°C). Stir the wax occasionally to break up any large chunks.
• Keep an eye on the wax and adjust the heat as needed to maintain the desired temperature range.

Adding Fragrance and Colour (Optional):

• Once the wax has completely melted, remove it from the heat source.
• If desired, add fragrance oils or essential oils. Stir well to ensure the fragrance is evenly distributed throughout the wax. Typically, you'll want to add around 1 oz of fragrance oil per 1 lb of wax, but follow the instructions on your chosen product.
• If you wish to add colour to your candles, now is the time to do so. Shave a small amount of coloured wax dye or use liquid candle dye, stirring thoroughly to combine.

Preparing the Wicks and Containers:

• While the wax is melting, prepare your wicks by adhering them to the centre of your chosen containers. Some wicks have built-in stickers, or you can use a small amount of hot glue or melted wax to secure the wick.
• Use a clothespin or stick to wrap the top of the wick around a pencil or skewer to keep it centred once you pour the wax.

Pouring the Wax:

• Allow the wax to cool slightly. The ideal pouring temperature is around 130-145°F (54-63°C). Stir the wax occasionally to prevent it from solidifying.
• Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared containers, being mindful not to disturb the wicks.
• Keep a light hold on the wicks to ensure they remain centred as the wax sets.
• Don't fill the containers to the brim; leave a small gap at the top to allow for expansion and to avoid overflow.

Final Steps:

• As the wax begins to set, you may notice a sinkhole forming in the centre. This is normal, and you can fix it by topping off the candles with the remaining wax once it has cooled and set completely.
• Let the candles cool completely. This may take several hours.
• Once the wax has hardened, trim the wicks to about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
• Enjoy your homemade wedding candles!

Frequently asked questions