How to make soy wax candle at home

Making a soy wax candle at home is simple, fun, and perfect for personal use or gifts. 

Here's a step-by-step guide for a basic container candle using soy wax:

What You’ll Need:

Materials:

1, Soy wax flakes (natural, clean-burning)

2, Candle wick (size depends on container diameter)

3, Wick sticker or hot glue (to secure wick)

4, Fragrance oil (optional, ~6–10% of wax weight)

5, Candle dye (optional)

6, Glass jar or tin (heat-safe container)

7, Wick centering tool (or chopsticks/pencil)

Equipment:

1, Double boiler (or a heat-safe pitcher + pot of simmering water)

2, Thermometer (ideally digital)

3, Measuring scale

4, Stirring stick (e.g., wooden skewer or spoon)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Container

Clean and dry the jar.

Attach the wick to the bottom center using a wick sticker or hot glue.

Use a centering device to hold the wick upright.

2. Measure & Melt the Wax

Measure your soy wax (e.g., ~7 oz for an 8 oz jar).

Melt in a double boiler over medium heat until fully liquid.

Target temperature: ~170–180°F (77–82°C)

3. Add Fragrance (Optional)

Remove from heat and cool slightly.

Add fragrance oil at ~135–145°F (57–63°C) and stir gently for 1–2 minutes.

Fragrance load: Typically 6–10% by weight (e.g., 1 oz fragrance per 10 oz wax)

4. Pour the Wax

Pour slowly into your prepared container at ~130–140°F (54–60°C).

Leave about ½ inch from the top.

5. Cool & Set

Let the candle cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.

Trim wick to ¼ inch before lighting.

Tips for Best Results:

Avoid drafts while cooling to prevent sinkholes or cracks.

If you see a sinkhole, top it off with a little warm wax.

Let the candle cure for 1–2 weeks before burning if you're using fragrance—this strengthens scent throw.