How to Make Your Own Soy Wax Scented Candles
There’s something magical about lighting a candle you made with your own two hands. The soft glow, the calming fragrance, and the knowledge that you crafted it yourself—it all makes the experience feel even more special.
Making soy wax scented candles at home is easier than you might think, and it’s a beautiful way to add cozy warmth to your space or create heartfelt gifts for loved ones.
Let’s walk through the steps so you can create your own candles with love, intention, and creativity.
Why Choose Soy Wax?
Soy wax is one of the most popular choices for candle making because:
It’s natural and renewable (made from soybeans).
It burns cleaner with less soot.
It allows scents to shine beautifully.
It’s beginner-friendly and easy to work with.
What You’ll Need
Here’s your simple candle-making kit list:
Candle wicks (cotton or wood wicks work great)
Heat-safe containers (jars, tins, or ceramic vessels)
Fragrance oils (choose scents you love!)
Wick holders (clothespins or chopsticks can help keep the wick centered)
Step 1: Prepare Your Containers
Place your wick in the center of your container. Use a dab of hot glue or a wick sticker to keep it secure at the bottom. Lay a wick holder across the top of the container to keep the wick upright.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
In a double boiler (or heat-safe pouring pitcher set inside a pot of simmering water), melt your soy wax flakes. Stir gently as it melts down into a smooth liquid.
Pro Tip: Soy wax melts around 120–180°F, but keep an eye on it with a thermometer so you don’t overheat.
Step 3: Add Fragrance (and Color if Desired)
Once your wax cools slightly (around 120–140°F), add your fragrance oil. The usual ratio is 1 oz of fragrance per 1 lb of wax, but always check your oil’s recommendations. Stir slowly for a couple of minutes so the scent binds well with the wax.
If you’re adding dye, this is the time to stir it in.
Step 4: Pour the Wax
Carefully pour your scented wax into the prepared container. Go slow to avoid bubbles. Leave a little space at the top of the container for a neat finish.
Step 5: Let It Set
Allow your candle to cool and harden at room temperature. This can take a few hours. Don’t move the container during this time so the wax sets smoothly.
Step 6: Trim and Light
Once your candle is fully set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch. Now comes the best part—light your candle, take a deep breath, and enjoy the cozy ambiance you created.
Candle making is more than just a craft—it’s an act of creativity and mindfulness. You’re not only designing how your candle looks, but also curating how it smells and how it feels in your space. It’s a beautiful reminder that creativity can be practical, soothing, and personal.
So grab some soy wax, pick your favorite scent, and let yourself enjoy the process. You’ll end up with more than just a candle—you’ll have a little piece of light and warmth that reflects you.