Glow Your Own Way
Homemade Candles to Brighten the Season…
There’s something about the glow of a candle that makes a room feel instantly warmer. Maybe it’s the flicker of light dancing on the walls, or that soft scent that drifts through the air – lavender, citrus, pine.
Whatever it is, candles carry a quiet kind of magic, especially during holidays. They invite you to slow down, breathe deeply and enjoy the season’s small comforts.
There’s nothing wrong with buying a high-end candle or two – they often smell wonderful and look stylish. But there’s something especially meaningful about making your own, especially if you’re creating them with your children. Homemade candles are personal. Each can be scented, colored and decorated to match your taste or the personality of the person you’re giving it to. And when you light it, you know exactly what went into it.
Candle making is also a fun and surprisingly easy craft project to do at home. It’s safe, affordable and kid-friendly with adult supervision. Plus, it doubles as a great gift-making session, perfect for an afternoon spent with family during a cozy December weekend.
Gather Your Supplies
You don’t need much to get started. Most of what you need can be found at a craft store or online:
• Soy wax (a clean-burning, renewable wax that’s easy to melt and handle)
• Wick (cotton or wooden, depending on the look and burn you prefer)
• Wick stickers or glue
• Heat-resistant jar or decorative container (think recycled jam jars, teacups, or small tins)
• Essential oils for fragrance – lavender, sandalwood and citrus are classic holiday choices
• Candle dye (optional, for a touch of color)
• Heatproof bowl and saucepan (or a double boiler)
• Thermometer
• Stirring stick (a chopstick or wooden skewer works perfectly)
Once you’ve gathered your materials, you’re ready to get started.
Step-by-Step Candle Making
Step 1: Measure Your Wax
You’ll need enough wax to fill your container twice. The wax will shrink as it cools, so measure accordingly and set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
Melt your wax slowly over medium-low heat using a heatproof bowl inside a saucepan (or a double boiler). Stir gently as it liquefies, making sure it doesn’t overheat or burn.
Step 3: Add Your Scent
Once the wax reaches about 185 degrees, remove it from the heat and stir in your chosen essential oil. A general rule is 1 ounce of oil per 1 pound of wax, but adjust to your preference. Lavender brings a calming aroma, sandalwood feels warm and woodsy, and citrus adds an uplifting, clean note – perfect for brightening winter days.
Step 4: Add Color (Optional)
If you want to tint your candles, now’s the time. Add a few drops of candle dye and stir until evenly blended. Keep in mind that the color will lighten a bit as the wax cools.
Step 5: Secure the Wick
Place a wick sticker or dab of hot glue in the center of your jar and press the base of the wick into place. To keep it standing upright, wrap the top of the wick around a skewer or chopstick laid across the rim of the jar.
Step 6: Pour the Wax
Let the wax cool to about 135–145 degrees before pouring. It should be warm and fluid, not scalding. Slowly pour the wax into your container to avoid air bubbles.
Step 7: Let It Set
Leave the candle to cool and solidify for at least 24 hours at room temperature. Once set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch, and your candle is ready to use – or gift!
Make It Your Own
The beauty of homemade candles is how customizable they are. Here are a few creative touches to make them extra special:
• Add botanicals. Sprinkle dried lavender buds, rose petals, or rosemary leaves on top (just keep them away from the wick).
• Use decorative containers. Vintage teacups, mason jars or small ceramic bowls make charming vessels.
• Mix scents. Try blending orange and clove for a classic holiday aroma, or lavender and cedarwood for something earthy and relaxing.
• Label with love. Tie a ribbon or twine around the jar and add a handwritten tag.
A Gift That Glows
In a season often filled with shopping lists and shipping deadlines, homemade candles are a reminder that thoughtful gifts don’t have to come from a store. They’re simple, heartfelt and genuinely useful – something anyone can appreciate.
Candle making also has a way of slowing the pace of the season. The process – melting, stirring, pouring – feels meditative, a quiet counterbalance to December’s usual rush. Whether you keep them for yourself or gift them to others, homemade candles bring a touch of light to the darkest days of winter.
So, before you wrap up your shopping this holiday season, try lighting your own workshop. Gather the family, warm the stove and make something that truly shines. •
Article Written By:
Al Olson loves culinary arts, adult beverages and hiking in the North State wilderness. You may find him soaking up the scenery at one of our area’s many state or national parks or sitting in a barstool sipping a cold locally brewed craft beer.
