How To Make Your Own Candles

Burning candles is a significant contribution to indoor air pollution. By releasing soot, ultrafine particles (UFPs), and volatile organic compounds (VOC's), they add harmful pollutants into the air and increase the risk of health issues. Most candles use paraffin, which is a product of fossil fuels, and have metal-core wicks (like tin or lead) which could release heavy metals into your home. Follow these steps to reduce your environmental harm while still keeping the warmth and comfort that candles provide for your household. 

Materials 

1. 100% pure soy wax (meltable)

2. Glass jar (preferably the size of a mason jar)

3. Fragrances/essential oils 

4. Hot glue gun

5. Wick (spool wick or wick insert)

Directions 

1. Prepare the jar

Make sure your glass jar is clean and completely dry 

2. Attach the wick

Place a small dot of hot glue on the base of the wick

Press it firmly into the center of the bottom of the jar

Hold it for a few seconds until secure

Keep the wick standing straight (you can wrap the top around a toothpick laid across the jar opening)

3. Melt the soy wax

Melt the soy wax by using a double boiler

Heat slowly until fully melted, stirring occasionally 

4. Add fragrance 

Once the wax is melted, remove it from heat, add fragrance or essential oil (about 1 oz per 1 lb of wax, or adjust to preference)

Stir gently for 30-60 seconds to evenly distribute the scent 

5. Pour the wax

Carefully pour the melted wax into the prepared jar

Leave a small space at the top

Make sure the wick stays centered 

6. Let the candle cool

Allow the candle to cool and harden at room temperature 

For faster results, place it in the fridge for 10 minutes (check periodically)

7. Trim the wick

Once fully hardened, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting