DIY Candles: A Beginner's Guide to Sustainable and Creative Candle-Making

On social media, candles are in the spotlight when it comes to decorating your room or home. Candles can be a beautiful addition to any room, but they can also be expensive and harmful to the environment. That's why making your own candles is a great solution. In this beginner's guide, we'll show you how to make candles using both recycled wax and new wax, and provide you with some creative ideas for making them unique!

First, let's see what you need:

• Old candles (if you're using recycled wax)
• New wax (if you're buying it)
• Wicks
• A double boiler or a pot and a heatproof bowl
• Thermometer
• Essential oils (optional)
• Candle dye (optional)
• Scissors
• Container (e.g. Glass)

Step 1: Prepare your work area

As always, make sure you have a clean and organized workspace before you start. Lay down some newspaper or an old sheet to protect your work surface. Have all your materials handy, and make sure your double boiler or pot and heatproof bowl are clean.

Step 2: Melt the wax

If you're using recycled wax, start by melting it down in a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of boiling water. If you're using new wax, follow the instructions on the package to melt it down. Make sure you use a thermometer to check the temperature of the wax. The ideal temperature is between 70°C and 80°C.

Step 3: Add fragrance and color

If you want to add fragrance or color to your candles, now is the time to do it. You can add essential oils for a natural scent, or candle-making fragrance for a stronger scent. 

Choose your scent carefully:

• Winter and Christmas candles frequently contain the sweet and spiciness of nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon. 
• In the summer, lighter and fresher scents like lavender or citrus might be more appropriate.
• Dried herbs like rosemary and thyme will help you create a natural atmosphere in your home.

First, think about the purpose of the candle. Are you making it for relaxation, to freshen up a room, or to set a romantic ambiance? Different scents can evoke different moods and emotions, so it's important to choose the right one for the occasion. Don't be afraid to mix and match scents to create your own unique blend!

It's also time too add candle dye if you wish to give your candles some color. Only one or two drops if you want a light color, or five to seven drops for brighter colors.

Step 4: Attach the wick

Take your wick and cut it to the desired length. Dip the end of the wick into the melted wax, then place it in the center of the candle container. Hold the wick in place until the wax hardens and the wick stays upright.

Step 5: Pour the wax

Carefully pour the melted wax into the candle container. Make sure the wick stays in place and doesn't move. Fill the container to about ½ inch below the rim.

Step 6: Let it cool

Let the candle cool completely, preferably overnight. Once the candle has hardened, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.

• Other creative ideas:

I've shown you the classic way of making candles, but there are ways to make them more original and creative:

• Add dried flowers or herbs to the wax for a natural touch

• Use different types of containers, such as mason jars or teacups

• Create layers of different colors and scents in the wax (this video shows you how to make funny layered candles)

• Try new forms (Here is a tutorial to create bendy candles, very famous on Pinterest!)

In short, candles are an inexhaustible source of creativity. You can make them in any color, scent or shape. Ideal to add charm to your home but also as a gift!

Don't forget to use #upandcycle on Instagram when you try to create your candles :)