So you want to try candle making at home? I know the feeling—that's how Eric and I got started! Our journey began in 2021 as a fun and creative way to spend time together, and it quickly became a shared passion. Today, we run Honey Willow, where we create eco-friendly, reusable candles.

Here are some dos and don'ts we've learned along the way to help you create beautiful, high-quality candles.

Dos:

1. Use high-quality ingredients:

Opt for natural waxes like soy, beeswax, or coconut. They burn cleanly and are eco-friendly. Imagine your home filled with the soft, soothing glow of a candle made from pure, sustainable materials—it’s a beautiful feeling knowing you’re doing good for the planet too.

2. Measure accurately:

Precision is key! Use a kitchen scale to measure your wax and fragrance oils. Remember that time you tried to eyeball a recipe and it didn’t turn out quite right? The same goes for candles. Accurate measurements ensure consistency in your candles' appearance and scent.

3. Use a thermometer:

Keep a close eye on the temperature of your wax. Each type of wax has an ideal pouring temperature. Overheating can ruin your wax and the scent. Think of it like baking—too hot, and your cake might burn; too cold, and it won't rise.

4. Prepare your workspace:

Set up a clean, organized area before you start. Lay down newspaper or a silicone mat to catch spills, and have all your tools and ingredients within reach. Picture this: a well-organized space not only makes the process smoother but also allows your creativity to flow freely.

5. Test burn your candles:

Before giving your candles as gifts or selling them, perform a test burn. This helps you check the burn time, wick performance, and scent throw, ensuring a high-quality product. It’s like a dress rehearsal for your candles—better to find out if something's off before the big show!

6. Use proper safety equipment:

Candle making involves hot wax and potentially dangerous tools. Wear heat-resistant gloves and safety goggles, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case. Safety first—think of it as wearing a seatbelt in your car, always better to be prepared.

Don'ts:

1. Use unsuitable containers:

Not all containers are suitable for candles. Avoid using plastic or thin glass that can crack or melt. Opt for heat-resistant glass, metal tins, or ceramics designed for candle making. Imagine your beautiful candle shattering because the container couldn’t handle the heat—yikes!

2. Add too much fragrance:

Adding too much fragrance oil can cause your candle to burn improperly or produce a strong, overwhelming scent. Stick to recommended fragrance oil percentages (usually 6-10% of the total wax weight). Think of it like perfume—a little goes a long way.

3. Overlook wick size:

The wick size significantly affects your candle’s burn quality. A wick that’s too small will create a weak flame, while a wick that’s too large can cause soot and excessive melting. Use a wick sizing guide to select the appropriate wick. It’s like choosing the right tool for a job—each one has its purpose.

4. Pour wax while too hot:

Pouring wax at too high a temperature can cause sinkholes, uneven surfaces, or damage to your container. Always pour at the recommended temperature for your type of wax. Think of it like making candy—too hot, and you end up with a sticky mess.

5. Rush the cooling process:

Allow your candles to cool and set slowly at room temperature. Rapid cooling can cause cracks and imperfections in the candle’s surface. Patience pays off—just like letting dough rise for the perfect loaf of bread.

6. Forget to label your candles:

Especially if you're gifting or selling them, include labels with the type of wax, fragrance, and burning instructions. This not only looks professional but also ensures safety for the user. It’s like providing a little manual for your creations—everyone appreciates knowing how to get the best out of a gift.

Making your own candles is a rewarding and creative hobby, and it’s all about the details. By following these dos and don'ts, you’ll craft high-quality candles that bring warmth and fragrance to any space. Happy candle making, and remember, every candle you create is a piece of art made with love! Starting this journey with my son, Eric, has been a joy, and we hope our candles bring the same joy to your home. From our family to yours, happy crafting!

 

*Disclaimer

Candle making involves working with hot wax and potentially dangerous tools. Always follow safety guidelines and exercise caution. Honey Willow is not responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses that may result from the use of information provided in this blog post. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and take appropriate safety measures. By using this information, you agree to do so at your own risk.