4 of 8

Write now Article Tools

So you want a hobby that the entire family can get into, and that the kids can get a lot out of? Making candles is fun, rewarding, and can very easily be a family endeavor.

There are two very simple methods to make candles; dipped and poured. The materials are very much the same; paraffin and/or beeswax, candle wicks (these can be made at home, but it is far simpler and not very expensive to purchase them), a double boiler (which can easily be home made), some inexpensive flat metal washers, and in the case of poured candles, small decorative containers such as the glass containers that can be purchased at the local dollar store or in yard sales.

Important note about Paraffin and other wax: Paraffin has a low flash point (the point when it will burst into flame). Never melt paraffin directly over heat, never leave a child unattended when using or melting paraffin, and always keep the wax just above the melting point (when it is liquid).

For dipped candles: Tie the wick to a small metal washer. Then in a double boiler, gently melt the paraffin. This may take awhile, but that is okay, because it is a family undertaking and gives you extra time with the family Dip the wick and washer in the melted wax, then after 10-15 seconds, remove the wick from the wax and allow it to cool. * If you dip it in cold water, the wax will take on a shiny gloss and cool quicker. Keep on dipping the wick in the wax, cooling it between dippings, until it is of the desired thickness. An inch is a good benchmark for thickness. This may take time. To add color to the wax, melt a crayon in the paraffin. Crayon can also be melted and dripped on the outside of the candle using another candle or a soldering iron, which leads to a very colorful candle.

For poured candles, place the wick with a washer attached, in the bottom of a decorative glass and hold or tie the wick at the top, to keep it near the center of the container. Tying in around a pencil and placing the pencil in the across the top, in the middle, will help with this. Something roughly the size of a voitive candle is good, but longer candles can be made very easily, as long as the candle isn't too thick.. Gently poor the paraffin (colored or uncolored as above) into the container until it is about 4/5 full. Note that as the wax gets solid, it will usually dip down in the center, more notably with thicker candles. Simply let it get totally solid, then add more melted wax to the depression, to fill it.

In both cases, you can add a few drops of essential oils to scent the candle. These can be picked up at crafts stores, and examples of scent are rose, lilac, lavender, cloves, cinnamon, and cedar. They add an especially nice touch, especially when the candle is lit and the aroma fills the room.

These candles make excellent gifts, and it is a way for older children to make their own. It is also a great way to instill interest in younger children to make their own crafts, so it is a great learning experience.

Though children should be constantly supervised when making candles, this can bring them a sense of joy and achievement. Let them work with their artistic talent, and have fun with what they can come up with! Always praise a child in regard to their artistic endeavor, as this strengthens character.

It isn't hard at all to make candles, and these make great gifts. Reasonable care should be taken, but most people will understand this. You can get a lot of satisfaction in doing this, and people will love the effort you put into it. What you produce simply cannot be bought in a store.

Learn more about this author, Rex Trulove.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Easy candle-making projects for beginners and kids?
We want to hear your view. Write now!