Guest Author - Benito Lugo

Candle making supplies you already own


Seems like each time someone finds out that I make candles, the first thing they say is, "You do?" The second question is, "How?" Most of the general public thinks that there is some terribly difficult and complicated procedure using expensive equipment involved in crafting homemade candles. The truth is there really isn't. If your intending to make your own candles for personal enjoyment and occasionally share with friends then I bet you have the majority of tools you need right in your own home.
My first candle making projects involved a kit purchased from a local hobby shop that cost $20. That kit included pre-colored wax, wicks, molds, thermometer and scents. The only things I needed to supply was a pot, water, coffee can, a heat source and metal spoon. The pot and coffee can were my first double boiler, simple and functional.
After using the molds included with my candle makers kit, I used mason jars with the leftover wax. A mold can be made out of endless objects such as, cardboard milk cartons, PVC pipe or empty cans. Container candles can be made from any temperature resistant container.

Making a quality candle is like cooking. We use the proper ingredients in the correct amounts to make a quality candle to sell or just enjoy. Following a known recipe or making your own new combination without exceeding the recommended temperatures to produce a consistent candle. The best part is that it is fun, no stress, little mess and you can enjoy your latest creations immediately.

Taking a look at the supplies needed to make a candle, you can see that substitutions are easy to use if your just starting out or your normal candle making supplies are not accessible.

Wax - new, used or recycled

Wicks - easily available or made simply by dipping in melted wax

Double boiler – coffee can or pouring pot in a pot of hot water.
Candle or candy thermometer

Metal spoon

Molds or container of your choice making sure they are leak proof and temperature resistant

Candle scents if needed

Candle making dye

Large enough area to prep and pour your new candle

Newspaper to cover counter tops

Paper towels for clean up

Crafting scissors – Honestly I have used household scissors for just about everything

As you can see, it is simple to gather tools to make a candle. When your projects become more complicated and your skills develop, you will seek candle making specific tools. Meanwhile just relax and enjoy your hobby as it was meant to enjoy.