DIY Floral Candles

 Light Up Your Life: DIY Floral Candles

The image depicts beautiful floral candles, a perfect way to add fragrance and ambiance to your home. Here's what you'll need to create your own fragrant floral candles, along with instructions and helpful tips:

Materials:

Heat-resistant container (glass jars work well)

Soy wax flakes (or beeswax flakes)

Candle wick (sized for your container)

Wax melting pitcher or double boiler

Thermometer

Dried flowers (such as lavender, rosebuds, chamomile, rosemary)

Essential oils (optional, choose a scent that complements the flowers)

Scissors

Clothes pin or pencil (to hold the wick)

Safety glasses (recommended)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Container: Wash and dry your chosen heat-resistant container thoroughly. Ensure it is free of any residue or debris.
2. Secure the Wick: Attach the metal tab of the candle wick to the bottom centre of the container. Use a small dab of hot glue or secure it by centring the wick on a sticker that comes attached to some wicks. Hold the wick upright with a clothes pin or pencil resting on the rim of the jar.
3. Measure the Wax: Measure enough soy wax flakes (or beeswax flakes) to fill your container, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
4. Melt the Wax: Using a double boiler or a dedicated wax melting pitcher, melt the wax flakes over medium heat. Never leave melted wax unattended and monitor the temperature closely.
5. Safety First: Wear safety glasses while working with melted wax. It can be hot and cause burns.
6. Heat to Temperature: Heat the wax to around 185°F (85°C) for soy wax or 150°F (65°C) for beeswax. Refer to the specific wax package instructions for recommended melting temperatures.
7. Adding Fragrance (Optional): If desired, add a few drops of essential oil to the melted wax once it reaches the desired temperature. Start with a few drops at a time and stir gently to combine. Be mindful not to add too much oil, as it can affect the burning of the candle.
8. Prepare the Flowers: Choose a selection of dried flowers that are safe for candles (avoid using flammable flowers or leaves).
9. Assembling the Candle: Carefully pour the melted wax into the container, leaving some space at the top (around 1/2 inch). While the wax is still warm, but not too hot, gently arrange the dried flowers into the wax using tweezers or a spoon. You can place some flowers at the bottom, some suspended in the middle, and some on top.
10. Safety with Flowers: Ensure the dried flowers are not too close to the wick or the side of the jar, as this can be a fire hazard.
11. Cooling and Setting: Let the candle cool completely at room temperature for at least 24 hours. The wax will solidify and the wick will set in place.
12. Trimming the Wick: Once the candle is fully cooled, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the wax surface.

Tips:

• Use a variety of dried flowers in different shapes, sizes, and colours to create visually interesting floral candles.
• Consider the fragrance of the essential oil you choose and ensure it complements the scent of the dried flowers.
• You can layer the flowers in the wax for a beautiful dimensional effect.
• For a more rustic look, leave the edges of the container rough.
• Always follow safety precautions when working with melted wax.
• Let your floral candles cool completely before burning them.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended and place it on a heat-resistant surface.

With a little creativity and these easy instructions, you can create beautiful and fragrant floral candles that add a touch of ambiance and personalisation to your home. Enjoy the process and the delightful glow of your handmade floral creations!