Learning how to make candles is a fun and easy hobby. The
majority of candles you purchase are made from paraffin wax, which is
melted down and poured in a form or container. Add a wick to the liquid
and allow the wax to harden, and you have a candle. Crayons are also
made from paraffin wax with coloring added. This means, of course, that
you can use old crayons found around your home (or buy new) to make
candles and the article below will show it is easy learning how to make
candles.
Step 1 – Choosing the Crayons
Collect the crayons that you wish to use as candles. They can be any
size, shape or color that you want. Keep in mind that since crayons are
colored, your final candle will resemble the combination of colors you
have. Purchasing a color wheel may help you mix the right colors to get
the result you desire. If you mix red wax with white wax you can create
pink. If you like the idea of making a fancy candle use several colors
melted separately. Pour the color into the container with one or more
other colors and swirl together with a toothpick.
Step 2 – Prepare the Crayons
Remove the labels from the crayons. In order to make sure the
crayons melt evenly and quickly, you should shave them down using either
a sharp knife or cheese grater.
Step 3 – Prepare the Container
There are several containers that are great for candles. Use old soup
cans that you cleaned out or glass mason jars. Any containers, with the
exception of plastic, can be used for your candles. Cans create an
industrial look but offer no window to see the color of the candle while
glass does and can be decorated with strips of fabric, paint or small
adornments. You can cut holes in the upper parts of the metal, as long
as you remember to not fill the can above the holes with wax. Clean the
container that you choose, making sure it is free of moisture and dirt.
Cut enough wick to reach the bottom of the container with a little extra
above the rim. Tie or tape the wick to a pencil and place the pencil on
top of the container so it is centered.
Step 4 – Melt the Crayons Down
Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler with hot water and place it
over a burner on medium heat. When the water boils, turn the heat to low
and place the top pan on top of it. Add the chopped crayons to the
double boiler and stir them until melted. If adding scents, this is the
time to do so but only a few drops. Scents like rose, lavender and
cinnamon are all good choices but you can also purchase custom scents
like cookie dough and pumpkin pie. Pour the melted crayons into the
container. When the wax sets, remove the wick from the pencil.