How to Color Candles with Crayons: A Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Candle Making

Have you ever wondered how to color candles with crayons? It’s a fun and creative way to add vibrant hues to your homemade candles. Just as crayons are versatile in coloring paper and fabric, they can also be used to infuse your candles with beautiful colors. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of coloring candles with crayons, ensuring that your candles not only look stunning but also smell delightful.

Materials Needed

To get started, you will need the following materials:

Wax-colored crayons (any color will do) Paraffin wax Double boiler or a heat-safe glass container and a pot Candle wicks Heat-safe molds (e.g., glasses, jars) Thermometer (optional but recommended for precision) Scissors Oven mitts (for handling hot molds)

Step-by-Step Instructions

The process of coloring candles with crayons involves a few simple steps. Let’s break it down:

Mixing the Crayons with Paraffin Wax

The first step is to melt the paraffin wax. You can do this using a double boiler or a heat-safe glass container placed over a pot of boiling water. The key is to ensure the wax melts at a consistent temperature for even coloring.

Once the paraffin wax has melted, carefully add the crayons to the mixture. Crayons have a wax core, and it’s important to use only wax crayons as paper or plastic crayons may not dissolve properly. Stir the mixture gently to ensure the crayons are evenly distributed throughout the wax. If needed, reheat the mixture to ensure a thorough blend. This will help produce even coloring throughout the candle.

Pouring the Melted Wax Into Molds

After the wax has been mixed and colored, it’s time to pour it into your molds. Place the mold on a flat surface and hold a wick in the center using a wick holder or a clothespin. Slowly pour the hot wax mixture into the mold, ensuring that the wick stays centered. The wax should be poured at an appropriate temperature to ensure it sets properly. If the wax is too hot, it may stick to the sides of the mold; if it’s too cool, it will not pour smoothly.

Cooling and Drying the Candle

Once the wax has been poured, place the mold in a safe location to cool down. Avoid touching or moving the mold until the wax has set. You can accelerate the cooling process by placing the mold in a refrigerator or an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice and water). Once the wax is firm, you can handle the candles.

Adding Layers of Color

If you want to create a layered candle, allow the first layer to dry slightly (about 15-20 minutes). During this time, you can tilt the mold to create interesting patterns. Pour another layer of colored wax and repeat the tilting process to create unique designs. You can continue this process, alternating colors each time, to create a beautiful multicolored candle.

Fragrancing Your Candles

For an additional sensory experience, you can add a few drops of essential oils or fragrance oils to the wax mixture. These should be added before the final pouring of the wax. Be careful not to add too much, as this can affect the melting point of the wax. Some popular candle-scented oils include lavender, jasmine, vanilla, and peppermint.

Finishing Touches

Once your candles are fully cooled and fragranced (if applicable), trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This ensures a good burn and prevents smoke. Store your candles in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use them.

Conclusion

Coloring candles with crayons is a fantastic way to unleash your creative side and add a personal touch to your homemade candles. Whether you’re making candles for a gift or for your own enjoyment, this DIY project is both fun and rewarding. So, gather your materials, follow these steps, and start experimenting with different colors and designs to create candles that are unique and beautiful.

Happy crafting!