This is a great project to learn how to make jelly jar candles. Container candles, especially those made in jelly jars for candles, are the easiest to start learning with and are always pleasant to have around, especially for test burning! You can make these for yourself or as gifts because you have the ability to customize the scents and colors. Experiment and have fun learning how to make a jelly jar candle!
Materials List:
How to Make Jelly Jar Candles – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Work Surface
Cover the counter with wax paper, old newspapers, or aluminum foil to make clean-up easier. This will help prevent wax spills from getting on your countertops.
Step 2: Prepare the Jelly Jar
Using a wick sticker, attach the wick to the bottom center of the inside of the candle jelly jar. Apply pressure to ensure good adhesion. Use the wick bar to keep the wick straight and centered in the jar.
Step 3: Melt the Wax
Melt the soy candle wax in a double boiler or Presto Pot with a thermometer to ensure temperature control. Melt the wax to approximately 170°-175°F. Occasionally stir the wax to ensure it completely melts and reaches the correct temperature.
Step 4: Measure the Wax
Place the pour pot on the digital scale and tare it. Once the wax is completely melted, transfer 7 ounces of wax to the pour pot using a ladle.
Step 5: Add Fragrance and Color
Add 0.70 oz of fragrance oil to the wax. Stir until the fragrance oil is fully incorporated into the wax – this should take about 2 minutes. Add drops of candle dye until the desired color is achieved, and stir well to distribute the color evenly.
Step 6: Pour the Wax into the Jelly Jar
Let the wax cool to approximately 160°F. At this temperature, the wax will have a thick, slushy appearance. Fill the pre-wicked jelly jar to the fill line, which is about 6.2 oz of wax. Set the jar aside to cool completely.
Step 7: Trim the Wick and Attach the Lid
Once the candle has completely cooled, trim the wick to about 1/4” and attach the lid to the jelly jar candle. Do not add the lid until the candle has completely cooled to avoid condensation forming inside the jar.
Candle Curing and Tips
Soy wax needs time to cure before burning to allow for a good scent throw. Let your completed jelly jar candle cure for 7-14 days before lighting it.
Tip: Remember, "The longer it sits, the stronger it gets!" This allows the fragrance to fully bind with the wax for a stronger, longer-lasting scent.
Some Safety Precautions:
- Cover the counter with wax paper, old newspapers, or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
- Be sure to wear safety goggles for eye protection. Hot wax can splash, and safety should always come first.
- Waxes used in making candles are similar to cooking oils – they are flammable and poured at high temperatures. NEVER HEAT WAX ABOVE 210°F.
- Always use a double boiler to melt wax. Heating wax directly over an open flame or burner can cause it to explode, leading to serious injury.
- Never leave hot wax unattended, and keep children and pets out of the area where wax is being melted and poured.
- Never pour water on a wax fire. Water will cause the fire to spread. Use a dry chemical fire extinguisher to put out a fire, and never pour melted wax down the sink or other drains.
Why Jelly Jars Are Perfect for Candles
Jelly jars for candles are ideal because they are durable, affordable, and have a charming, vintage look. These candle jelly jars make excellent gifts and can be repurposed after the candle burns out. Their wide openings also allow for a good burn and strong scent throw, making them a popular choice for container candles.
Whether you're making a jelly jar candle for yourself or as a gift, the possibilities are endless. Customize your candles with different fragrances and colors to create a unique and personalized product. Jelly jars are easy to find and add a classic, homey touch to any candle project.
