Crafting Aromatic Bliss: A DIY Guide to Making Soy Candles with Essential Oils

Candles have a unique ability to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any space, and when combined with the natural goodness of soy wax and the scents of essential oils, they become even more special (especially when you make them yourself!).

Here’s an easy step-by-step guide of making your own candles infused with your favorite essential oils. From selecting the right materials to melting, pouring, and scenting, we will provide you with all the tips you need to craft beautiful candles that will transform your home into a sanctuary of blissful scents.

We hope you enjoy the process of making candles – We have a feeling you will love this simple and creative art form.

Materials You’ll Need (We link what we love!)

1. Beeswax sheets or soy pellets (We prefer using the soy pellets, but will include instructions for beeswax sheets as well.)
2. Pre-waxed candle wicks (the soy wax pellets we linked above include wicks)
3. Essential oils of your choice. We love a fresh, fresh citrus essential oils like this.
4. Double boiler or a heat-safe container and a saucepan
5. Thermometer
6. Scissors
7. Pencil or ruler
8. Optional: Wick tabs or clothespins

Step 1: Prepare The Wick

• Cut the pre-waxed candle wick to your desired length, leaving a few extra inches for attaching to the candleholder.

Step 2: Roll The Beeswax Sheet (if using sheets)

• If you’re using beeswax sheets, lay one sheet flat on a clean surface.
• Place the pre-cut wick along one edge of the sheet, leaving about an inch of wick sticking out from the edge.
• Gently press the wick onto the beeswax sheet to secure it in place.
• Start rolling the beeswax sheet tightly around the wick, keeping it straight and even as you go.
• Continue rolling until you reach the other end of the sheet, making sure the seam is well sealed.

Step 3: Melt The Soy Wax (if using pellets)

• If you’re using soy pellets, fill the bottom of a double boiler or a heat-safe container with water and place it on a saucepan.

• Add the soy pellets to the top portion of the double boiler or the heat-safe container.
• Heat the water in the saucepan over medium heat until it simmers gently, allowing the soy pellets to melt gradually.
• Stir occasionally until the soy is completely melted.
• Note: If you’re using a heat-safe container directly on the stovetop, ensure it’s heat-resistant and use caution to avoid overheating or causing a fire hazard.

Step 4: Add Essential Oils

• Once the beeswax/soy is melted, remove it from the heat source and let it cool slightly.
• Add your desired amount of essential oils to the melted beeswax/soy, usually about 10-20 drops per pound of wax, depending on the desired strength of the scent.
• Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute the essential oils evenly throughout the wax.

Step 5: Pour The Soy Wax

• (If you’re using rolled beeswax sheets, skip this step and proceed to Step 6.)
• Place the pre-waxed wick with the attached beeswax sheet in an upright position inside a candleholder.
• If desired, secure the wick at the top by tying it around a pencil or using clothespins to keep it centered.
• Pour the melted soy wax slowly into the candleholder, ensuring the wick stays in place.
• Leave a small amount of wax (about 1/4 inch) below the top of the candleholder to allow for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Allow The Candles To Cool And Set

• Let the candles cool and solidify completely, which typically takes a few hours.
• Avoid moving or disturbing the candles during this time to prevent the wick from shifting or the wax from developing uneven surfaces.

Step 7: Trim The Wick And Enjoy

• Once the candles are fully set, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch in length.
• Light your beeswax candles and enjoy the delightful aroma and natural ambiance they provide.

By crafting your own candles, you have the power to infuse your living space with enchanting scents that bring joy and tranquility to your daily life. From the warm glow of the beeswax to the delicate aroma of your chosen essential oils, each candle you create becomes a manifestation of your personal style and the ambiance you wish to create.