How to make scented candles
Candles, particularly scented candles, are very popular these days. They add a warmth scent to the home that many people adore. However, because of their popularity, they have become very expensive to purchase. Making these candles at home can cut the cost, and provide a fun project for those who like to craft.
Items you need: wax, wick, scent, a double boiler, and candle mold. Have all these items ready and together. Cover your work area with some newspapers so that clean up will be easier.
Now put the wax into your container and then place it in a pan of water to act like a double boiler. Place the pan of water on the stove at medium heat. Remember not to let the water boil too hard because it could reach the wax.
As the wax melts, it is time to prepare your mold. Make sure it is clean.
After the wax has completely melted, place the thermometer into the container so that it does not touch the bottom or the sides. When the wax has reached 80º C (176° F), it is ready to pour.
Now add the color chips in small pieces at a time to ensure your wax will have the color you desire. You can always add more if you choose but if you have a too dark color for your liking; it is very difficult to add more wax to tone down the shade.
At last, it is time to add the desired scent. About half a teaspoon of the scent will work fine; if to much scent is added be aware that your candle may not burn properly.
After adding the scent, stir very well and then pour the scented, colored wax into your mold. Now carefully lift the wax container from the water and dry the outside with a clean cloth. This will keep the water from reaching into your candle. Slowly pour the wax into the mold until you have reached the proper height. Return the wax to the water and keep hot until the candle is done.
As it sets, the wax will start shrinking. You will need to add more liquid wax. First, use a skewer to poke the candle, inserting it into the candle as it cools. Do not touch the sides or the bottom of you mold. This will add air into the candle, which help keep its shape when removing it from the mold. Then pour more liquid wax from the pan into the hole that has been created from the skewer.
When completely cooled, at about four or five hours, you can remove it from the mold. If the candle sticks to its mold, place it in the refrigerator for an hour; this will help shrink the wax. Do not put it in a freezer, as this will crack the candle.
If you want this process to work faster you should place the poured candle into a cold “bath”. This is rather necessary for many kinds of wax. Using cold water, place the mold into the sink. The water level must be higher than the candle level. This will keep your candle free from the water line when it is finished.
Inserting the wick is relatively simple. If you do though, have problem applying it, after the removal of the skewer, you should wax the wick by dipping it into the liquid wax, letting it harden before placing it into the finished candle. Let the candle cool for a couple of hours and you are done. You have managed to make your personal scent candle to enjoy or give as a gift.
