Making Container Candles

Now that you’ve learned how to make votive candles you just might be ready to move upward and onward in the strange world of candle making. But what, you might ask, is the next step, exactly, in the strange world of candle making? Well–container candles, of course! Container candles look somewhat nicer than votive candles and they come with, well, their own container. This has several advantages apart from looking nice, such as the fact that it doesn’t ever drip.

If you’re suddenly itching to make a container candle, worry not–just follow this short guide and there’s no question you’ll have a beautiful completed container candle in no time.

Step 1: Melt the Wax

The wax. This step is essentially the same as when you make a votive candle. You’ll want your wax to be approximately 175 degrees. If you want to use additives, then add them first. Next, you can add either the fragrance oil or the dye.

Step 2: Set the Wicks

This is where it gets tricky. Unlike the votive candle, you’ll want to press the candle wick into the jar first before pouring the wax. Put some hot glue on the bottom of the jar and press the wick down into it. The wick should be sticking up straight and in the very center of the jar (unless, of course, you want it to be off-center for some reason).

Step 3: Pour the Wax

Pour the wax. Some guides recommend heating the jar first, though this is not necessary. When your wax has reached the right temperature, pour it to the desired level, leaving room for a lid to the jar if necessary. Make sure, of course, that your wick doesn’t drown in the wax. Pour around it! There will, once again, be some leftover wax.

Step 4: Let them Cool

Allow the wax to cool completely. This will take several hours (usually around 5-7). As with the votive candle, once the wax is cool, you’ll want to use the remainder of your wax to fill the candle to the top. One trick to keep the wick in place is to use a clothespin to clamp down on the wick. This can be down either before or after pouring the wax. It isn’t necessary to use a clothespin, but it is helpful as you’ll want to make sure the wick doesn’t get lost inside the candle.

You’re done! See–it wasn’t that hard! While container candles are a bit trickier to make due to potential of losing the wick, they’re actually pretty easy. If candle making wasn’t one of your favorite hobbies before, we know it must be now! Thank you for reading our candle making guide!