Are you looking for an easy DIY project to bring a refreshing scent to your home? Why not make a homemade lemon-scented candle? This project is perfect for beginners and can be completed in just a few hours. In this blog post, we will direct you through making a homemade lemon scented candle that will add a glimmer of brightness and freshness to your living space.
Materials Needed
Before we get started, here are the materials you will need to make your homemade lemon scented candle:
- Candle wax (soy or beeswax)
- Candlewick
- Lemon essential oil
- Lemon zest or dried lemon peel
- Double boiler or a heat-proof bowl and saucepan
- Glass jar or tin container
- Pencil or chopstick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your homemade lemon scented candle:
Step 1: Prepare the container
Start by preparing your container. Make sure it is clean and dry before use. Using a glass jar, you can decorate it with some lemon slices or a ribbon for a nice touch.
Step 2: Melt the wax
It has melted the candle wax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowls set over a saucepan of boiling water. Be sure to stir the wax occasionally until it melts completely.
Step 3: Add the scent
Once the wax is dissolved, remove it from the heat and add 10-15 drops of lemon essential oil. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add the lemon zest
Next, add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon zest or dried lemon peel to the wax mixture. Stir well to distribute the zest evenly.
Step 5: Pour the wax
Put the wick in the container using a pencil or chopstick and hold it in place. Carefully pour the wax mixture into the container, ensuring not to disturb the wick. Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of the container.
Step 6: Let it cool
Allow the candle to cool completely. This can take up to 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the container.
Step 7: Trim the wick
Once the candle has cooled, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the wax surface.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some further tips and tricks to help you make the perfect homemade lemon scented candle:
Use soy wax
Soy wax is an excellent choice for making candles as it is eco-friendly and produces a cleaner burn than traditional paraffin wax.
Experiment with different scents
If lemon isn’t your favourite scent, try experimenting with other essential oils. Lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are all great choices for homemade candles.
Use a thermometer
For best results, use a thermometer to heat the wax to the correct temperature (around 170-180°F for soy wax).
Be patient
Allowing the candle to cool slowly will help to prevent cracking and ensure an even burn.
Conclusion
Making a homemade lemon scented candle is a fun and easy project that will add a touch of brightness and freshness to your living space. With just fewer simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a beautiful candle that will fill your home with the refreshing scent of lemons.
FAQs
Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon essential oil?
No, the lemon extract is not suitable for candle making. It is designed for cooking and baking and may not produce the same results as an essential oil.
Can I use a different type of wax?
Yes, you can use a different type of wax, such as beeswax or paraffin wax. However, remember that different wax types have different melting points and may require different temperatures and cooling times.
Can I use fresh lemon instead of lemon zest?
While fresh lemon can add a nice touch to your candle, using it instead of lemon zest is not recommended as it may cause the candle to become too watery and not burn correctly.
Can I use a different type of container?
Yes, you can use a different type of container, such as a metal tin or a ceramic jar. Just make sure it is heat-resistant and safe for candle making.
How long will the candle last?
The burn time of your homemade lemon scented candle will depend on the size of the container and the quality of the wax and wick used. On average, a 6-8 oz candle can burn up to 30 hours.