Do you want to fill your home with delightful scents while unleashing your creativity? Then, making scented candles is the perfect hobby for you! In this blog, you'll learn all about scented candles: what they are, how to make them yourself, and what materials you need to do so. Let's get started!

What is a scented candle?

A scented candle is a candle that releases a pleasant fragrance when lit. These candles are perfect for creating a cosy atmosphere in your home, masking unwanted odours, and providing aromatherapeutic benefits. Scented candles come in all shapes, sizes, and scents, from soothing lavender to refreshing lemon. There’s something for everyone.

How is a scented candle made?

Making a scented candle begins with melting candle wax, often made from soy, beeswax, or paraffin. Once the wax is liquid, scent is added in the form of fragrance oils or essential oils. This mixture is then poured into a mould with a wick in the centre to create a candle. After cooling and hardening, the candle can be removed from the mould and is ready for use.

Can you make scented candles yourself?

Yes, you can definitely make scented candles yourself! It’s a fun and creative activity that offers endless possibilities to experiment with different scents and shapes. Moreover, making your own scented candles is often cheaper than buying pre-made ones, and you can fully customise them to your personal preference.

How to add fragrance to candles

To add fragrance to candles, use fragrance oils or essential oils. These oils are added to the melted wax before pouring it into the mould. It is important to use the correct amount of oil to distribute the scent well without affecting the candle's ability to burn properly. If you add too little fragrance oil, the candle won’t give off the scent well. If you add too much oil, it may not blend well with the wax and can result in a less attractive candle. A good rule of thumb is to add 6%-10% fragrance oil by the weight of the candle wax, so for every 100 grams of wax, add 6 to 10 grams of oil.

What can you use to add fragrance to candles?

There are several products you can use to add fragrance to your candles:

• Fragrance oils: Specifically designed for candles, these oils come in a wide variety of scents.
• Essential oils: Natural oils extracted from plants that also offer aromatherapeutic benefits.
• Scented beads: Small beads infused with fragrance that can be added to the wax.

Supplies needed to make your own scented candles

To start making your own scented candles, you'll need the following materials:

• Candle wax (soy, beeswax, or paraffin)
• Fragrance oils or essential oils
• Wicks
• Moulds or glass jars
• Double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl and pan
• Thermometer
• Stirring stick
• Optional candle dye

Step-by-step guide to making scented candles

Follow these simple steps to make scented candles yourself:

1. Melt the candle wax: Use a double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl and pan to slowly melt the wax. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer to ensure it doesn’t get too hot.
2. Add fragrance: Once the wax is completely melted, add the fragrance or essential oils. Again, use the thermometer at this step; you may need to let the wax cool down or heat it a bit more. The ideal temperature for adding fragrance oil is 65-70°C. Stir well to ensure the fragrance is evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the mould: Place the wick in the centre of the mould or glass jar. You can use a drop of melted wax to adhere the wick to the bottom. Alternatively, use a hot glue gun to secure the wick.
4. Pour the wax: Carefully pour the melted candle wax into the mould. Ensure the wick stays centred by using a stick to hold it in place.
5. Let cool: Allow the candle to cool and harden at room temperature. This may take several hours, depending on the size of the candle.
6. Trim the wick: Once the candle is fully hardened, trim the wick to about 1 cm above the candle.

Making scented candles with herbs

Making scented candles with herbs is a fantastic way to add natural and subtle scents to your candles. Not only do herbs provide a delightful scent, but they also add a beautiful visual texture to your creations. Here are some tips and steps to make scented candles with herbs:

1. Choose your herbs: Popular herbs for scented candles include lavender, rosemary, mint, thyme, and chamomile. Ensure the herbs are completely dry before using them to prevent mould growth.
2. Prepare the candle wax: Melt your candle wax using your preferred method. You can use soy, beeswax, or paraffin wax, depending on your preference.
3. Add the herbs: Add the dried herbs to the melted wax. You can stir them evenly through the wax or sprinkle a small handful of herbs into the mould before pouring the wax.
4. Enhancing the scent: If you want a stronger fragrance, you can add a few drops of essential oil that complement the herbs. For example, add lavender oil to dried lavender flowers. You can also create a matching combination with a different fragrance oil than the herbs. For example, try adding a citrus scent for a refreshing effect.
5. Pouring and cooling: Pour the herb-infused wax into your mould or glass jar and let it cool and harden at room temperature.
6. Finish: Trim the wick, and your scented candle with herbs is ready to use!

Using herbs in scented candles is a creative way to add a natural aroma and rustic appearance to your candles. Experiment with different combinations of herbs and oils to find your perfect scent.

Fragrance combinations you should try

One of the most enjoyable aspects of making scented candles is experimenting with different scent combinations. You can create unique and personal aromas that perfectly match various moods, seasons, and occasions by mixing fragrances. Here are some inspiring scent combinations that you should definitely try to give your home a delightful and inviting atmosphere. Of course, you are free to create your own combinations, but these are some scent combinations that we at Vaessen Creative recommend:

• Lavender and vanilla candle
• Citrus and basil candle
• Rose and sandalwood candle
• Ginger and lime candle
• Cinnamon and orange candle
• Coconut and lime candle
• Peppermint and chocolate candle
• Apple and cinnamon candle
• Lilac and lemon candle
• Bergamot and patchouli candle
• Almond and honey candle
• Cherry and almond candle

Frequently asked questions about scented candles

Here are some frequently asked questions about making your own scented candles to help you along the way:

How much fragrance oil should I use in a candle?

It is important to use the correct amount of fragrance oil for your candles. Generally, it is recommended to use 6-10% fragrance oil based on the weight of the candle wax. This means that if you have 100 grams of candle wax, you should add 6-10 grams of fragrance oil.

Can you make scented candles with essential oils?

Yes, you can definitely make scented candles with essential oils. They provide natural scents and aromatherapeutic benefits. Just be sure to use the correct amount to prevent the candle from burning poorly.

Why doesn't my scented candle smell strong enough?

This can have several causes. It may be that you haven't added enough fragrance oil, or you may have used low-quality candle wax. It could also be that you did not let the candle harden long enough before lighting it.

How long should scented candles harden?

It is recommended that scented candles be left to harden for at least 24 hours before lighting them. For the best results, you can even let them harden for two to three days.

Can I add colourants to my scented candles?

Yes, you can add certain types of dye designed for candles to give your scented candles a fun colour. Make sure that the colourants mix well with the melted candle wax. You can also decorate your candles with certain types of paint or food colouring.

What is the best way to store scented candles?

Store scented candles in a cool, dark place to prevent the scent from fading and the wax from melting. Avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures.

Why do my scented candles smoke?

If your candles smoke, it could be due to a too-long wick or impurities in the candle wax. Make sure to regularly trim the wick and use clean, high-quality candle wax.

Tips for beginners

Making your own scented candles is a fun and creative activity. As a beginner, it's helpful to keep a few tips in mind to ensure your candles turn out successfully and smell great.

Choose the right materials

It all starts with the right materials. First and foremost, the candle wax. Use natural soy wax or beeswax, which burn cleaner and produce less soot. Paraffin wax is another option that holds the scent better. It's also common to combine the two types of wax to get the best of both. Additionally, look for high-quality fragrance oils specially made for candles to ensure the scent is well-distributed and long-lasting.

Work in a clean, well-ventilated space

Candle-making can be messy, so ensure you have a clean workspace and enough room to work. A well-ventilated area is also essential, especially when working with hot wax and fragrance oils. This helps to vent fumes and ensures a safe working environment. It's also helpful to lay down old newspapers or tablecloths to catch any spills and protect your work surface.

Measure your ingredients carefully

Make sure to use the right proportions of wax and fragrance oils. Too much oil can cause the candle to burn poorly and can even be dangerous, while too little oil makes the scent less strong. Use a kitchen scale to measure quantities accurately. This ensures your candles are consistent in quality and scent strength, which is important for a good end result.

Heat the wax carefully

Heat the wax slowly and evenly in a double boiler to avoid burning. The ideal temperature is around 70-80 degrees Celsius. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the melted wax. Too high temperatures can damage the wax and affect the scent of the oil. By heating the wax carefully, you maintain the quality of your candles and ensure an even melt.

Add the fragrance at the right temperature

Add the fragrance oil once the wax is melted and the temperature has slightly dropped, ideally around 60-65 degrees Celsius. This ensures the scent mixes well with the wax and doesn't evaporate due to high temperatures. Stir the oil thoroughly into the wax to ensure the fragrance is evenly distributed.

Use the right wick

The choice of wick is crucial for the proper burning of your candle. A wick that is too thick can create too large a flame and produce soot, while a wick that is too thin can cause the candle to burn poorly and go out. Check the recommendations of the wax manufacturer you're using and choose a wick that suits the diameter of your candle. This ensures optimal burning and a longer lifespan for your candle.

Let the candles cool slowly

Allow the poured candles to cool at room temperature to prevent cracking and cavities. Avoid cooling in the refrigerator or freezer, as this can lead to uneven cooling and cracks in the wax. Letting the candles cool slowly ensures a smooth and even surface. This adds to the aesthetics and quality of your homemade candles.

Test your candles

Make a test candle and burn it to check if the scent and burning behaviour are as desired. This gives you the chance to make any adjustments before making more candles. Pay attention to how the candle burns, how the scent disperses, and if there is any smoke or soot formation. By testing, you can find the perfect balance between wax, fragrance oil, and wick, resulting in a high-quality candle.

Safety first

Always work safely: wear an apron to protect your clothing, use heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from hot wax, and be careful with hot wax and fragrance oils. Ensure there are no children or pets nearby while you're working. Keep a fire extinguisher or a container of sand nearby for emergencies. Safety is essential to prevent accidents and ensure an enjoyable experience.

Be creative

Don't be afraid to experiment with different scents and colours. Creativity makes the process more fun, and you can discover unique combinations that suit you perfectly. Try various blends of fragrance oils and add colourants to give your candles a personal touch. You can also experiment with different shapes and sizes of candles. Let your imagination run wild, and enjoy the process of creating your own unique scented candles.

Making your own scented candles is a fun and creative activity that can fill your home with wonderful scents. With the right materials and techniques, you can create beautiful candles that perfectly match your personal taste and style. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced candle maker, we hope this blog inspires you to get started with your own scented candles. Have fun and enjoy the enchanting scents!

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