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DIYs

How to make your own candles

Looking for your next rainy day craft project? Dive into the world of candle-making! DIYing your own candles isn't just an art project—it's the perfect way to personalize your space with scents that match your mood and colors that pop.

Step 1: Gather your supplies

+ Soy Wax, $7
+ Candle Wick Kit, $7
+ Fragrance Oils, $10
+ Dye Cubes (bulk), $9
+ Double Boiler, $11
+ Thermometer, $5
+ Mason Jars, $12
+ Spoon or other stirring utensil

Step 2: Melt and Mix

Start by filling a pot halfway with water before bringing it to a boil. Place the wax in a double boiler in the pot over the stove. Use a thermometer to ensure the wax is kept at 135 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit—precision is key!

If you want to make things simpler, try melting your wax in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one.

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Step 3: Add scent and color

Once the wax is liquid, mix in your chosen fragrance oil. For each cup of wax that you melt, add 30 drops of your chosen scent. From calming lavender to energizing citrus, the world is your scented oyster!

Want to add a pop of color? Stir in a vibrant candle dye until you achieve the hue of your choice. Whether you're into pastels or bold and bright, let your creativity shine. Here are some combos to get you started...

🍋 Relax: Lemon and lavender with light purple dye
🍂 Cozy up: Cinnamon and orange with orange dye
🌿 Focus: Rosemary, thyme and cedarwood with light green dye
🍒 Smile: Cherry and vanilla with red dye
🧡 Wake up: Nutmeg, orange and ginger with pale yellow dye
🌹 Indulge: Peppermint and rose with pink dye

Step 4: Place your wick

Secure the wick at the bottom of your container with a drop of melted wax. Wrap the other end of the wick around a pencil before laying it horizontally across the jar. Center it like the superstar it is, because nobody wants a lopsided candle, right?

Step 5: Pour

Carefully pour your fragrant, colorful wax into the container.

Step 6: Let it set

Time for the waiting game: Let your candles cool and solidify. While you're at it, start dreaming up names for your personalized creations. "Sunset Serenity" or "Midnight Bliss," anyone?

Step 7: Trim and shine

Trim those wicks like a candle couturier. Be sure to keep at least 1/4 of an inch of wick at the top of your candle. Now, light up your masterpiece and bask in the warm glow of success!

Step 8: Jazz it up

Add candle glitter to your wax mixture or dried/pressed flowers like rose petals and pansies. You could also add mini shells from the craft store or fresh sprigs from a pine tree (helloooo, perfect DIY Christmas prezzie!).

For artsy candle shapes, pour your wax mixture into silicone candle molds like 3D bubble cubes or mini succulents.

Looking for more DIY projects? Check out more at @girlslifemag!