Learning how to make candles is an interesting art to take up.
Here are some basic tips you should know before you start.
When making candles, it is best to prepare your workspace.
Use newspaper or wax paper to cover the area where you will be working.
Wax that has dried can be quite difficult to remove, and may even stain some fabrics.
Start off by making a mold.
You can choose from different disposable food containers, such as empty milk cartons.
Select a mold that has a wider mouth than its base, so that the candle will slide out easily.
Most candle-makers create their own double boiler.
An old coffee can placed inside a medium-sized pot with several inches of water will do.
Make sure that the can is not floating inside the pot.
When melting the wax, cut it into chunks or small pieces.
You can also use old candles that have been used, but make sure that you remove the charred ends of wick.
If there are any charred ends remaining, take them out while you stir the mixture.
Never leave the wax unattended! Remember that wax is flammable, especially when placed at high temperatures.
When heating, don't allow it to smoke or to sputter.
If a fire should start, turn the stove off and cover the pot with a lid.
Crayons are actually the best way to give color to your candles.
Add them in when the wax is almost melted.
Use a pot holder when pouring the wax from the coffee can into the mold.
To prevent spills, slightly tilt the mold towards the can.
With regards to the wick, most people who are just learning how to make candles find that it is easier to insert the wick before the melted wax is poured into the mold.
However, you can also do it once the candle has hardened.
Get some straight wire, heat it and melt a hole through the candle.
Thread the wick through this hole and pour some melted wax on top to make sure that the wick is secure.
Be patient.
Wait approximately 1 day for the candle to harden.
Although the candle may already look hard, the wax inside it is most probably still not ready.
Depending on the mold you've chosen, there are several ways you can remove your candle.
If the mold is paper, just tear the paper.
Otherwise, turn the mold you've chosen upside down, and gentle tap the bottom.
If it doesn't work, try using a knife to pry the candle away.
If this still doesn't work, dip the mold in some hot water for several seconds, and allow the outside of the candle to melt a little.
Although you can do this craft on your own, it is best to have an assistant with you to help you out when you're just starting to learn how to make candles.
Once you've mastered these tips, you're well on your way to learning how to make candles on your own!