I have been holding on to some fancy yogurt cups not sure why or how I would ever use them. Cute little glass containers with no lids; though I had no immediate use for them I thought they were too adorable to send out of my life forever. Then finally it came to me. I’ve never made candles before but I thought I would give it a try and I’m glad I did. They are easy, customizable and the perfect use for old glasses and jars that are just taking up space. I love how easy it is to personalize this recipe with different combinations of scents and reused or vintage containers!

What you need:

• Soy wax flakes
• Candle wicks
• Hot glue gun
• Clothes pins (can use pencils instead)
• Fragrance or essential oils (I used combinations of Jasmine, Sage, Lavender and Grapefruit oils)
• Glass or ceramic containers to hold wax (I reused some old yogurt cups)
• Microwavable bowl or double boiler for stovetop (I used a microwavable measuring cup for easy pouring)

Tips:

• Soy wax flakes really shrink down when melted. To measure the approximate amount to make your candles, fill each of your containers with flakes twice.
• For easy clean up lay down some parchment paper on your work surface.

Instructions:

Step 1 – Using a hot glue gun fix wicks to the bottom of you containers. This really helps keep the wicks in place.

Step 2 – Thread your wicks through clothespins to keep them centered. If you’re using pencils, wrap your wick around the pencil so it is held in place.

Step 3 – Measure your soy wax flakes and place into microwavable bowl.

Step 4 –  Microwave wax for 1 minute and stir. Then continue to microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring after each interval, until wax is completely melted. (can alternately melt wax on stovetop with double boiler)

Step 5 – (optional) Once melted add your scented oils. I used 40-60 drops for 3 small candles but this is really about personal preference. It’s best to start with less and add more if you want a stronger fragrance.

Step 6 – Carefully pour scented wax into your prepared containers.

Step 7 – Let candles sit until the wax is completely hardened. Depending on the size of your candles this can take 2-4 hours. Enjoy!