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- 1). Melt the wax in a double boiler or turkey roaster. If neither is available, a large saucepan or coffee can is fine. If using a coffee can, place the can into a larger pot with water. The heat from the water will melt the wax.
- 2). Monitor the temperature of the heat and wax with a candy thermometer. The melting point of paraffin wax is 130 to 145 degrees F. Soy wax has a melting point of 120 to 180 degrees, depending on the blend used.
- 3). Add 1 tsp. of stearic acid (also known as stearin) per pound of wax. This helps the candle burn slower and longer.
- 4). Add citronella oil to the melted wax and stir. Use approximately 1 to 1 1/2 oz. of oil per pound of wax. You can add more for a stronger scent but do not exceed 3 percent oil per pound.
- 5). Add color to your wax, if you prefer, using liquid dye or dye chips. You can use crayons, but the color fades quicker and isn't as bold as candle dye. Liquid dye is concentrated, so you need only a few drops.
- 6). Dip the wick in the melted wax two or three times. The melted wax is absorbed into the wick fibers and acts as a fuel when burning. This will also help the wick burn slower. Make sure the wick is at least 2 to 3 inches longer than the height of the container being used.
- 7). Prepare your candle containers by placing the wick inside. Use a ladle to pour a small amount of wax into the container while securing the wick with a clothespin. Allow the wax to harden before adding more wax.
- 8). Repeat this process until you have poured enough wax to fill the container. As wax cools (especially paraffin), it shrinks and causes a well or cave around the wick. Pierce a hole near the wick with a skewer stick or coat hanger to the bottom of the container and add more wax.
- 9). Cut the wick and allow the candle to cool completely before lighting.
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