Candles have been produced for 5 000 years but it is only recently that creative candle making has become a hobby and source of relaxation and enjoyment.
Nelmari, owner of A Peace of Art, says, “At A Peace Of Art we believe that candle making, along with all the other arts and crafts that we teach, are essential for self-discovery and fulfilment. Our hands-on creativity classes bring inner peace and improve mental health.”
Today, candles are primarily used for ambiance, aromatherapy, and as a decorative element, with their role in providing light being secondary to these uses. With modern tools and inexpensive wax, candle making offers almost unlimited opportunities for creative minds.
Where Did Candles Originate?
Candle making, an ancient art with a glowing legacy, has illuminated human history for thousands of years. The earliest known candles are traced back to ancient Egypt around 3000 BCE, where rushlights—torches made by soaking reeds in melted animal fat—served as primitive candles. The Romans are credited with developing the first true dipped candles made from tallow (rendered animal fat) around 500 BCE. Across the world, in ancient China and Japan, candles were crafted from wax extracted from insects and seeds, while in India, candle makers used the wax from boiled cinnamon trees. This rich tapestry of cultural ingenuity highlights how the desire to bring light into darkness spurred creativity across civilizations.
Nelmari says, “The journey of candle making reflects the human drive for comfort, ritual, and artistic expression.”
In medieval Europe, the demand for candles increased dramatically as their use extended beyond practical lighting into religious and ceremonial purposes. Beeswax candles became the preferred choice for churches due to their clean burn and pleasant scent, although they were a luxury inaccessible to the common people, who mostly relied on smoky, odorous tallow candles.
How Have Candles Been Made in Historical Times?
Candle making in historical times was as much about necessity as it was about skill. Techniques for making candles evolved alongside available materials and technological advancements. Early candle makers, or chandlers, utilized whatever resources were abundant locally. In Europe, tallow from cows and sheep was commonly used, while in the Middle East and Asia, vegetable-based waxes found favor.
The process often involved melting the chosen fat or wax, dipping a wick (usually made of cotton, hemp, or even papyrus) repeatedly into the hot liquid until the desired thickness was achieved. In the Middle Ages, candle making became a specialized craft. Guilds of chandlers emerged, and candle making became an important trade, especially in urban centers.
The introduction of beeswax marked a significant improvement in candle quality. Beeswax candles burned cleaner, brighter, and longer than tallow candles, and they became a mainstay in important religious ceremonies and for the wealthy. By the 18th century, the discovery of spermaceti—a wax obtained from sperm whales—enabled the creation of even higher-quality candles that resisted softening in warm weather and produced minimal smoke.
“It wasn’t until the 19th century, with the development of stearin (derived from animal fats) and the advent of paraffin wax (a byproduct of petroleum refining), that candle making became more efficient, affordable, and accessible to the mass public. These innovations paved the way for the candle making industry as we know it today,” says Nelmari.
What Is Used in Candle Making Today?
Modern candle making brings together a remarkable array of materials, allowing both commercial and creative candle makers to experiment with colors, scents, and textures. Today, the most common waxes used in candle making are:
- Paraffin Wax: A versatile and cost-effective petroleum byproduct, easy to work with and popular for both container and molded candles.
- Soy Wax: Derived from soybean oil, soy wax is a renewable, eco-friendly alternative favored by environmentally conscious candle makers. It burns cleanly and holds fragrance well.
- Beeswax: Naturally aromatic and golden in color, beeswax is prized for its air-purifying qualities and long, soot-free burn.
- Palm Wax: Made from palm oil, this wax creates unique crystalline patterns and is often used for decorative candles.
- Coconut Wax: Known for its smoothness and excellent scent throw, coconut wax is often blended with other waxes for optimal performance.
Wick technology has also improved, with choices such as braided, flat, or square wicks made from cotton, wood, or even eco-friendly materials.
Nelmari says, “Modern candle making wouldn’t be complete without the dazzling array of fragrances, dyes, and special additives like glitter, botanicals, and embedded objects, all of which add a creative flair to the finished candle.”
What Do I Need for Creative Candle Making?
If you’re inspired to try your hand at creative candle making, you’ll need to gather a few essential supplies. Nelmari says that the beauty of candle making is that it can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Wax: Choose from paraffin, soy, beeswax, or blends depending on your preference and project.
- Wicks: Select an appropriate size and material for your candle type. Pre-waxed and tabbed wicks simplify the process.
- Containers or Molds: Jars, tins, silicone molds, or vintage cups—let your imagination run wild!
- Fragrance Oils or Essential Oils: Add your favorite scents to create an inviting ambiance.
- Candle Dye or Pigment: Experiment with colors to customize the look of your candles.
- Heat Source and Double Boiler: Safely melt your wax using a stovetop and heatproof bowl.
- Thermometer: Accurate temperature control ensures a smooth, even finish.
- Stirring Utensil: A dedicated spoon or spatula for mixing wax, fragrance, and dye.
- Wick Centering Device: To keep your wick straight while the candle sets.
- Decorative Elements: Dried flowers, herbs, glitter, or even small charms can be added for a personalized touch.
Safety equipment like gloves, aprons, and a well-ventilated workspace are also important for a successful and enjoyable candle making session.
What Are the Steps?
Candle making is a rewarding and meditative DIY activity. Follow these steps to bring your creative candle making vision to life:
- Prepare Your Workspace: Cover surfaces to catch drips and spills. Organize all your supplies within easy reach.
- Measure and Melt the Wax: Weigh the amount of wax needed for your containers or molds. Melt the wax in a double boiler over gentle heat, monitoring the temperature closely.
- Add Fragrance and Color: When the wax reaches the recommended temperature (usually 170–185°F or 77–85°C, depending on the wax type), stir in your chosen fragrance oils and dyes. Mix thoroughly for even distribution.
- Attach the Wick: Secure the wick to the bottom of your container or mold using a dab of hot wax or a wick sticker. Center the wick using a wick holder or pencil.
- Pour the Wax: Pour the melted, scented, and colored wax carefully into your container or mold. Leave a bit of space at the top for a smooth finish.
- Secure the Wick: Ensure the wick remains centered and upright as the candle cools and sets.
- Add Creative Touches: Before the wax fully hardens, gently press in decorative elements like dried flowers, herbs, or glitter. For layered candles, let each layer cool slightly before adding the next.
- Allow Candles to Cure: Let your candles cool and cure for at least 24 hours. This step ensures optimal scent throw and burn quality.
- Trim the Wick: Cut the wick to approximately ¼ inch (6 mm) before lighting.
- Enjoy and Share: Light your handmade candle, bask in its glow, and don’t hesitate to gift your unique creations to friends and family!
Whether you’re drawn by the history of candle making, the science of scent blending, or the joy of gifting handcrafted treasures, candle making offers a rewarding journey for crafters of all skill levels. Embrace the glow, and let your creativity shine!
Learn the art of creative candle making
“Creative candle making is not only a delightful way to add warmth and ambiance to your home, but also provides endless opportunities for personalization and artistic expression,” concludes Nelmari.
A Peace Of Art holds regular workshops on Creative Candle Making. Follow them on social media or contact one of their offices to find out when the next course is being run.
Contact A Peace of Art for all your equipment and classes
Facebook: @apeaceofartcreativeartsandcraftsworkshops
Instagram: @apeaceofart
Port Elizabeth: 85 Main Road, Walmer. Tel: 072 304 0797
Bloemfontein: 7 Avenham Street, Avenham. Tel: 076 192 1637