People everywhere are enjoying this fun hobby and learning to make thier very own handmade candles for themselves. All different kinds of candles can be made, including dipped tapers, votives, pillars and more, and there are all kinds of different colors, sizes and scents available. It's easy to do, too, so just about anybody can make their own candles.

You can make anything from a decorative centerpiece candle to scented jar candles to practical lighting candles. Mistakes are easily dealt with - just melt your candles down and try again if you don't like what comes out. Because of this, candle making is one of the most forgiving hobbies in the world.

You can choose to purchase a candle making kit for your first candles, try the craft store for some basic supplies purchased separately, or order from a specialty candle making store online. Each method has its benefits and downsides.

Kits come with all the components you need, but can be limiting since you don't get to select them. Local stores allow you to purchase your own supplies, but may not have a great selection. Online shops offer the largest range of options, but you don't get to see your purchases before you buy, so research is important.

No matter how you get them, the supplies and tools you'll need to make your first candles are relatively simple. You'll require some candle wicks and wax, a method of melting the candles (double boilers and microwaves are both popular), and a method of protecting your work surface from wax like heavy plastic or newspaper.

You'll also need molds for candles like votives and pillars, and jars for soft waxes that never become quite solid. If you want to do things the old fashioned way and use a dipped candle, make sure you have something to dip into that's deep enough, a place to hang finished candles for cooling, and something to suspend wicking from. All candle makers will also need a thermometer.

Don't do any candle making around your pets or your kids, and make sure you take safety precautions like wearing the proper clothing. This will keep you from having to deal with spilled hot wax and the burns that come from it. There are low temperature specialty waxes that aren't as dangerous, however.

Most people also like to color and add a candle fragrance with a combination of dyes and perfumes. While these are chemicals, most of them are non toxic - just don't eat them. Make sure you remember that candle dyes can stain, so handle them with care and add them to your melted wax slowly to prevent mottling.

That's really all you need when it comes to basic candle making, and the supplies can be pretty inexpensive. A few old candle stubs, some wick, and a jar can help you make your first practice candles. Once you get used to doing it, you can work with multiple colors, mix your own shades, and work in more creativity.

StumbleUpon It!

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!