How to Make a Treasure Candle: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Unique, Fun, and Meaningful Candle
Candles have been cherished for centuries for their soothing light and pleasant fragrance and the sense of atmosphere they bring to a room. But imagine combining the classic beauty of a candle with the excitement of a hidden treasure. That’s exactly what a treasured candle offers—a delightful surprise nestled within the wax, just waiting to be discovered. Making your treasure candle is a creative and fun project that adds a personal touch to your home décor or makes an unforgettable gift. Whether you want to hide a small trinket, a piece of jewellery, or a meaningful message, a treasured candle is the perfect way to combine craftsmanship and mystery.
This post will walk you through the step-by-step process of making a treasured candle. With some basic materials, a little patience, and a bit of imagination, you can create a one-of-a-kind candle that will delight and surprise anyone who lights it.
What You’ll Need:
Before we start, gather the following materials and tools:
Materials:
- Wax: The most common waxes used for candle-making are paraffin, soy, and beeswax. For a smooth finish and eco-friendliness, soy wax is a great option. You can purchase candle wax from craft stores or online.
- Wicks: Choose a wick that is appropriate for the size of your container or mould. Cotton or wooden wicks are the most common choices.
- Treasures: These can be small jewellery pieces, figurines, coins, crystals, or other tiny items. Just make sure they are heat-resistant and non-toxic.
- Fragrance oils (optional): If you want your candle to have a pleasant scent, you can add fragrance oils to the wax.
- Dye or colouring chips (optional): If you’d like to add colour to your candle, you can use dye specifically made for candle making.
- Containers or Molds: Depending on whether you’re making a jar candle or a moulded candle, you’ll need suitable containers or moulds.
- Double Boiler: For melting the wax.
- Stirring Utensil: A spoon or spatula to stir the wax.
- Thermometer: To monitor the temperature of the wax.
- Hot Glue Gun or Super Glue: To secure the wick to the bottom of the container.
Safety Note:
Always work in a well-ventilated area and avoid wearing loose clothing when making candles. Be careful while melting the wax, as it can get extremely hot.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Making candles can be messy, so it’s a good idea to set up your workspace to prevent any spills or accidents. Lay down newspaper or disposable tablecloths, and make sure you have access to all the materials you’ll need. Wear protective gloves if desired, especially if you’re using dye or handling hot wax. Ensure that your containers or moulds are clean and dry.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
Start by cutting your wax into smaller chunks. This will allow it to melt more evenly and quickly. Place the wax pieces in the top part of a double boiler (or use a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water). Heat the wax gently, stirring occasionally. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer—wax should be melted to between 170°F (77°C) and 180°F (82°C).
If you want to add colour to your candle, now is the time. Stir in a few drops of candle dye or some colouring chips. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even colour. For a more vibrant effect, you can experiment with layering different colours of wax later in the process.
If you want to add fragrance, do so once the wax has completely melted and reached the right temperature. Add about 1 ounce of fragrance oil per pound of wax. Stir gently to distribute the fragrance evenly throughout the wax.
Step 3: Prepare the Container and Wick
While the wax is melting, it’s time to prepare your container or mould and wick. If you’re using a jar, a glass container, or any other heatproof vessel, start by glueing the wick to the centre of the bottom of the container. Use a hot glue gun or a dab of superglue to secure the wick. Let it dry for a few minutes.
If you're using a mould, the process is similar. You’ll want to attach the wick to a skewer or pencil and position it in the centre of the mould, making sure it’s taut and centred. This helps the wick stay in place when the wax is poured in.
Step 4: Add Your Treasure
Before pouring the wax into the container, now is the time to add your hidden treasure. Be sure to pick a treasure that is small enough to fit within the candle’s layers but large enough to be easily discovered once the candle has burned down. You can use items such as:
- A small piece of jewellery (e.g., a ring or charm)
- Coins (for good luck)
- Crystals (for energy)
- Tiny figurines (such as animals or symbols)
- Personal notes or tiny scrolls (for a more meaningful touch)
Place the treasure carefully in the container, ensuring it’s not touching the wick. This allows the treasure to remain hidden while the candle burns and reveals the surprise once the wax melts.
Step 5: Pour the Wax
Once the wax has melted and your wick and treasure are prepared, it’s time to pour the wax into your container or mould. Pour the wax slowly and steadily into the container, leaving a small gap at the top to avoid spillage.
If you want to create layers with different colours or scents, wait for the first layer of wax to cool and harden slightly before adding the next layer. You can also experiment by adding multiple treasures to different layers, giving a multi-layered treasure reveal.
Step 6: Let the Candle Set
Allow the candle to cool completely. This can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the candle and the room temperature. Once the wax has hardened, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the candle.
Step 7: Test the Candle
Before gifting or using your treasure candle, it’s a good idea to test it. Light the candle and allow it to burn long enough to expose the treasure. Make sure it burns evenly and that the wick stays centred.
Tips for a Successful Treasure Candle:
- Choose non-toxic treasures: Ensure that any items hidden inside are safe to burn. Avoid materials that could catch fire, such as plastic or anything with synthetic coatings.
- Create multiple layers: Adding multiple layers of wax with different treasures or colours creates a more dramatic reveal and makes the candle burn longer.
- Let it cure: Let the candle cure for 24 hours before using it. This gives the wax a chance to fully solidify and the fragrance to set.
- Consider the size of the treasure: Be mindful of the size of your treasure, especially if it is meant to be revealed after the candle burns for a while. Choose a size that will give the person a fun surprise but won’t risk being completely buried in the wax.
Conclusion
Creating a treasured candle is a unique and exciting project that combines the art of candle-making with the thrill of a hidden surprise. Whether you want to give it as a gift, use it as a fun centrepiece, or simply add an extra touch of mystery to your space, these candles are bound to spark joy and curiosity. With just a few simple steps, you can make a beautiful and meaningful treasure candle that will light up any room—literally and figuratively!