Using herbs and botanicals in candle making not only adds delightful scents but also enhances the visual appeal of your candles. These natural ingredients can transform an ordinary candle into a unique, aromatic experience. Whether you want to create a calming ambiance or invigorate your space, incorporating these elements can elevate your DIY candle projects. Here are three practical examples to inspire your next crafting adventure!
Creating a lavender-infused candle is perfect for those who want to bring a sense of calm and relaxation into their space. Lavender has soothing properties, making it an ideal choice for a bedroom or meditation area. To make this candle, you will need lavender essential oil and dried lavender flowers.
Start by melting your chosen wax (soy or beeswax works great) in a double boiler. Once melted, remove it from heat and add about 30-40 drops of lavender essential oil, mixing thoroughly. Next, sprinkle a small amount of dried lavender flowers into the bottom of your candle container. Pour the melted wax over the flowers, filling the container, and let it cool completely. The result will be a beautifully scented candle that brings tranquility to any room.
Notes: You can experiment with the amount of dried lavender for a stronger or subtler look. Consider pairing lavender with other calming scents, such as chamomile or eucalyptus, for a layered aroma.
If you’re looking for an invigorating scent, the combination of citrus and rosemary is a fantastic option. This candle is perfect for kitchens or living spaces, as it provides a fresh, uplifting fragrance. To make it, gather lemon or orange essential oil and fresh rosemary sprigs.
Begin by melting your wax in a double boiler. Once melted, incorporate around 20 drops of lemon or orange essential oil into the wax. After mixing, take a few fresh rosemary sprigs and cut them to fit your candle container. Place the sprigs into the container before pouring in the wax. The citrus scent will be refreshing, while the rosemary adds an herbaceous note. Allow your candle to set, and enjoy the delightful aroma.
Notes: If you want to enhance the visual appeal, you can also add some citrus zest (the outer peel of the fruit) to the wax. This adds both fragrance and a pop of color!
This example is perfect for the festive season! A spiced cinnamon and clove candle creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s great for holiday gatherings. You’ll need cinnamon essential oil and whole cloves for this project.
Begin by melting your wax using a double boiler. Once it’s fully melted, add 30 drops of cinnamon essential oil. This will fill your space with a cozy fragrance. Next, take a handful of whole cloves and place them at the bottom of your candle container. Pour the melted wax over the cloves, filling the container to the top. As the candle burns, the spices will release their scent, creating a nostalgic holiday vibe.
Notes: You can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg or allspice to create your unique blend. For an added visual touch, consider using a glass container that showcases the beautiful spices inside.