How To Make a Molded Candle

Prepare your workspace by covering it with wax paper or newspaper to make cleanup easier.

Place the wax into a double boiler setup and heat to between 150 and 200 degrees, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the thermometer to check the temperature frequently. Don’t let it exceed 250 degrees or the vapors could become flammable.

Thread one end of the wick through the hole at the bottom of the mold so about half an inch of wick is sticking out. Roll this bit of wick into a tight coil, and hold it against the mold with your finger.

With your other hand, roll a small piece of mold sealer into a ball and smear it over the coiled wick. Be sure the wick is completely covered, or wax will seep through the hole and make a mess.

Pull the long side of the wick up and tie it to a thin rod. Rest the rod across the top of mold, making sure the wick is taut. Cut off any excess wick above the rod.

When the wax has reached its proper temperature and is fully melted, remove it from the heat, turn off the stove, and stir.

Pour the wax into the mold until it reaches half an inch or so below the rim, saving about a cup for later use.

Put the mold aside to cool, keeping it away from any drafts or flammable objects. And don’t refrigerate it – the wax should cool slowly.

Once the top has cooled and a skin has formed, usually about 30 minutes to an hour later, use a toothpick to poke a few deep holes near each wick to help prevent air pockets from forming.

As the temperature drops, the wax at the center of the candle tends to sink and form a well. Reheat the wax you saved and add it to the mold until the well is filled.

After the candle has sat for several hours and cooled completely, remove the sealer from the bottom, uncoil the wick, and pull the candle up and out of the mold. It should slip out easily.

Untie the top of the wick and trim it to about a quarter of an inch. Cut off any excess wick on the bottom of the candle.

Use a small knife or cloth to rub out any imperfections or marks left on the candle from the mold.