Oil Candle Making
People around the world appreciate the convenience and functional features of candles. There’s even an old Chinese proverb that states “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.” This is a wise saying but candles provide much more than mere light. These items are also capable of delivering beauty, pleasing fragrances and a warm, welcoming glow.
Candle making is a hobby for many people that they have come to appreciate because of the ease and affordable cost. Candles have become extremely popular items in many homes and businesses. These products are made in a variety of ways; and although most people know about candles that are made from wax far less is known about oil candles. So off we go to learn more about oil based candles and how to make them!
Just the thought of being able to light a candle and not have to deal with any of the less desirable problems of waxy drips, smoke and soot is enough to put a smile on anyone’s face. Especially on the faces of those who want to learn more about making candles. If you choose to create homemade oil candles you will be able to enjoy all of the best features of candles and never worry about having the melted wax drip down the sides of your candles and onto a prized piece of furniture.
Most people have seen a wide variety of candles offered online and in specialty stores in their neighborhoods. Both oil based candles and those made of wax are available throughout the year. Oil candles can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from the most simple of designs to the most elaborate. They make wonderful gifts that are both beautiful as well as practical, and you can make them easily at home if you just collect a few basic craft supplies first.
Perhaps the most obvious difference between an oil candle and a wax candle is what provides these decorative objects a combination of beauty and function. This is the oil, of course. As opposed to using a solid brick of wax to create these items you use a liquid paraffin oil to create these long-lasting oil candles. This clear liquid oil is available in an assortment of colors ranging from dark, rich shades to pale pastel hues. You can even purchase scents and fragrances that add a soothing, delightful touch to the oil candles you make at home.
When you decide to make an oil candle you are able to create one that is exactly suited to the occasion. You determine the colors, the scent and the size that the finished product will have. You also have the chance to select a container that will add elegant beauty or use a container that is the epitome of casual chic.
In order to make a basic oil candle you will need to have the following items on hand that can be purchased from a hobby or craft supply site:
The container that you will use to hold the candle
Liquid paraffin oil
Heatproof funnel
Fiberglass candlewick
Thermal glass candlewick tube and adapter adjustment ring (you may not need the adjustment ring)
These are the items needed for a simple oil candle. You can create a more decorative and elaborate oil candle but it will require some additional craft/ candle making supplies.
Select a heavy container such as a glass jar or bottle. It will need to be made of a glass that will not shatter when exposed to high heat. You can use clear or colored jars for this purpose but the colored jars may not allow you full view of any decorative items that you add to the interior of the container.
Some people prefer to use containers made from stone, marble or some type of attractive metal. Plastic containers cannot be used to hold an oil candle. You will want to consider a container that has a unique shape or size if you want to add extra interest to the final product.
Oil candles are able to be personalized to a larger degree than candles that are made from wax. You can add tiny seashells, dried flowers (such as roses or carnations), sprigs of herbs (such as lavender, rosemary or mint) or even marbles and beads to an oil candle that you are making. As long as the decorative objects to be added will fit through the container’s opening you can add them to the candle.
To make a basic oil candle, first choose a container that will be adequate in size and shape for the type of candle you are going to prepare.
Using the funnel to keep the oil from spilling you can then fill the container with liquid paraffin oil until the level of paraffin oil is about 1/2 inch below the rim.
Insert the candlewick into the thermal glass tube and allow approximately 1/4 inch of the wick to extend above the top of the tube.
Now you can place the glass tube and wick into the container.
Make sure that the top of the thermal glass tube sits just below the top edge of the container.
*If necessary you can use the adjustment ring to help you position the thermal glass tube and wick.
With a bit of practice in the art of making basic oil candles, you will soon have it mastered and can then move on to creating even more detailed and decorative oil candles for your home. You can also enjoy being able to surprise family and friends with these personalized and highly functional gifts.
