Volcano candles have become a popular home decor item, with their unique shape and mesmerizing “lava” effect. These candles are often sold at high-end stores for a hefty price, but did you know that you can easily make them at home? In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating stunning volcano candles that will add a touch of elegance to any room.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather all the necessary materials. You will need:
- A large glass jar or container
- Paraffin wax or soy wax flakes
- Candle wicks
- Red and blue candle dye
- Fragrance oil (optional)
- A double boiler or a heat-safe container and a pot
- A wooden spoon or a stir stick
- A thermometer
- A hot glue gun
- A volcano image (for reference)
Step 1: Melt the Wax
by Soliman Cifuentes (https://unsplash.com/@aleexcif)
The first step is to melt the wax. If you are using paraffin wax, place it in a double boiler or a heat-safe container and place it in a pot filled with water. If you are using soy wax flakes, you can melt them directly in a pot. Heat the wax until it reaches a temperature of 180-185°F.
Step 2: Add Color and Fragrance
Once the wax has melted, it’s time to add color and fragrance. For the classic volcano candle look, add a few drops of red and blue candle dye to the wax and mix well. You can also add a few drops of fragrance oil to give your candle a pleasant scent. Popular choices for volcano candles include tropical scents like coconut or pineapple.
Step 3: Prepare the Jar
While the wax is still hot, use a hot glue gun to secure the candle wick to the bottom of the jar. Make sure the wick is centered and straight. You can also use a pencil or a chopstick to hold the wick in place while the wax cools.
Step 4: Pour the Wax
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Now it’s time to pour the wax into the jar. Slowly pour the wax into the jar, making sure to leave some space at the top. This will prevent the wax from overflowing when the candle is lit. If you want to create a more realistic lava effect, you can pour the wax in layers, letting each layer cool before adding the next one.
Step 5: Create the Volcano Effect
To create the iconic volcano effect, you will need a volcano image for reference. Place the image next to the jar and use a wooden spoon or a stir stick to create the desired shape. You can also use a toothpick to create small “cracks” in the wax for a more realistic look.
Step 6: Let it Cool
Once you are happy with the shape of your volcano candle, let it cool completely. This can take a few hours, so be patient. Once the wax has hardened, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.
Congratulations, you have just created your very own volcano candle! You can now proudly display it in your home or give it as a unique and thoughtful gift. Experiment with different colors and scents to create your own unique volcano candles. Happy crafting!