Starting a new craft can feel overwhelming — especially with all the tools, terms, and techniques floating around online. But candle making doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, one of the best things about this craft is how accessible it is, even for total beginners.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of what you need to start making candles at home — step by step, without the fluff. Whether you want to make one candle for yourself or start a new hobby, here’s how to get started the right way.
Essential Supplies: The Core Ingredients of Candle Making
You don’t need a full workshop to make beautiful, high-quality candles. Here’s what you’ll need to begin:
- Wax — The heart of any candle. Popular beginner-friendly options include soy wax (natural and clean-burning), beeswax (sustainable and sweet-smelling), and paraffin (inexpensive, but less eco-friendly).
- Wicks — Choose the right size for your container. Cotton wicks are common for simple container candles. Wood wicks create a soothing crackle and modern aesthetic.
- Containers or Molds — Start with heat-resistant jars, tins, or silicone molds. Recycled jars work too, as long as they can withstand heat.
- Fragrance Oils or Essential Oils — These add aroma. Fragrance oils are stronger and more consistent. Essential oils are natural but can be trickier to use effectively.
- Colorants (optional) — Dye chips, liquid dye, or natural powders can add creative flair to your candles.
- Thermometer — Helps control the temperature of your wax for safety and optimal scent performance.
- Pouring Pitcher — Usually metal, this makes it easier to melt and pour wax cleanly.
- Stirring Stick — A wooden skewer or spoon to blend scent and wax evenly.
Basic Steps: How to Make a Simple Container Candle
- Melt the Wax
Use a double boiler or microwave-safe pitcher. Heat gently and consistently until fully melted, monitoring the temperature. - Prepare Your Container
Attach the wick to the bottom of the container using a wick sticker or a bit of melted wax. Make sure it’s centered and straight. - Add Fragrance and Color
Let the wax cool slightly before adding fragrance (usually between 60–70°C or 140–160°F, depending on the wax type). Stir gently but thoroughly. - Pour the Wax
Slowly pour the wax into your container. Leave some space at the top. Secure the wick upright with a holder or chopstick across the top. - Cool and Cure
Let the candle cool undisturbed for several hours. Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting. For best results, allow the candle to cure for a couple of days so the scent binds well with the wax.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overheating the wax — This can burn off fragrance and discolor the wax. Use a thermometer.
- Adding fragrance too early or too late — Follow the temperature guide specific to your wax.
- Incorrect wick size — Too small, and the candle won’t burn properly. Too large, and it may tunnel or smoke.
- Not anchoring the wick — If your wick moves during pouring, the candle will burn unevenly.
Starting with one or two candles is the best way to learn. Each attempt helps you improve — and soon, you’ll be creating beautiful candles consistently.