Over the years our winery crew has collected boxes of wine glasses. At first, it was fun but then I ran out of space to put them. We really hate to toss these mementos into the recycle bin. Most wineries prefer customers to keep tasting glasses. My latest endeavor is candle-making. Repurposing materials around the house cuts down on clutter and reduces waste in our landfills. Some days I do not feel particularly crafty, but this project has sparked my interest in an age-old skill. I am super excited about investing in more equipment to expand my newfound hobby.
I did a bit of research and discovered a ready-to-go candlemaking kit would be my best option. The other option is to buy supplies individually. Regardless, the equipment you use for candle making should not be used to prepare food. If you purchase the supplies individually, there are 2 items you must have: a kitchen scale and a thermometer. You cannot eyeball the measurements or temperature. I use the packing paper from my Grove shipments to cover and protect the countertop.
Step 1: Prepare your workspace. Cover your countertop with paper. Gather your supplies. My kit only came with 2 bow tie clips. The clips hold the wick in place while the wax hardens. I can only make 2 candles at a time. I have tried to take the clip off before the candle was ready. Epic fail! Candlemaking requires a bit of patience. You cannot be in a hurry if you want a professional quality candle.
Step 2: Measure the wax. Keep in mind the total volume will include the fragrance that will be added later.
Step 3: Heat the wax slowly at a low temperature until it reaches 185 degrees.
Step 4: Once the wax reaches 185 degrees remove it from the heat.
Step 5: Calculate the amount of fragrance for the candle. The percentage can vary from 6% to 9% based on your personal preference. The amount of fragrance is calculated by multiplying the ounces by 0.06 up to 0.09. I like a stronger fragrance, so I always use 9%.
Step 6: Stir for 30 seconds and let cool to 135 degrees.
Step 7: While the wax is cooling, prepare the wicks.
Step 8: Slide the bowtie clip over the wick and fill the container with melted wax.
Fragrances are usually sold in 1-ounce bottles. My kit came with a 3-pound bag of wax. Three pounds sounds like a lot of wax, but I ended up ordering a 10-pound bag after my first batch of candles were complete. Buying in bulk was clearly a better deal.
Regardless of what container you are using, I found the pre-tabbed wicks work the best. Peel the tab off and place it in the center of the container. If you are using a tall container or a narrow container use a pencil to make sure the tab is secured to the bottom.
After the candles are poured, put them on a flat surface and place them where they will not be disturbed. After 24 hours you can remove the bow tie and place a sticky note to label the fragrance. The longer you let the candle cures the more fragrant it will be. I like to allow mine to set for 7 days.
After 7 days I trim the wicks to 1/4 inch and they are ready to use. Mother's Day is right around the corner and a handcrafted candle makes an excellent gift. Be sure to check out all of our crafts on our YouTube Channel.
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