Gather Your Supplies
Making Mason jar candles requires a few supplies, including:
- Mason jars
- Candle wicks
- Candle wax
- Fragrance oil (optional)
- Candle dye (optional)
- Double boiler or melting pot
- Thermometer
- Popsicle sticks or wooden skewers
Once you have all your supplies, you’re ready to start crafting your candles!
Melt Your Wax
Begin by melting your candle wax in a double boiler or melting pot. Most candle wax is melted at around 180-190 degrees Fahrenheit (82-88 degrees Celsius), but be sure to check the instructions on your specific wax to make sure you heat it to the correct temperature.
Prep Your Jars
While your wax is melting, prepare your Mason jars. Choose jars that are the size and shape you want your candles to be. Place a candle wick in the center of each jar, pressing it into the bottom of the jar so it sticks. You can hold the wick in place using a popsicle stick or wooden skewer and by wrapping the end of the wick around it.
Add Fragrance and Dye (Optional)
If you want scented or colored candles, add fragrance oil or candle dye to the melted wax. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the desired scent or color. Be sure to stir the wax thoroughly after each addition to ensure it’s well mixed.
Pour Your Wax and Let it Cool
Once your wax is melted and you’ve added any desired scents or colors, it’s time to pour it into your prepared Mason jars. Carefully pour the wax into each jar, filling it to within 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) of the rim. Be sure to hold the wick in place as you pour to keep it from moving or falling over.
Let the candles cool completely, usually for several hours, until the wax has hardened and become solid. Trim the wick down to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) before lighting your new candles.
By following these steps, you’ll have beautiful homemade Mason jar candles in no time!