Candles make any room feel cosy and welcoming, but many store-bought varieties have ingredients that aren’t good for vegans. Traditional candles often use paraffin, a petroleum byproduct, or beeswax, which isn’t suitable for those following a plant-based lifestyle. The good news is that making your candles at home is simple, fun, and allows complete control over the ingredients used.
By crafting DIY vegan candles, you can ensure they are cruelty-free while customising them to your preferred scents and aesthetic. Whether you’re new to candle making or looking to refine your skills, this guide will walk you through the process of creating high-quality, eco-friendly candles at home.
Choosing the Right Wax
The foundation of any candle is the wax, and for a vegan-friendly option, plant-based waxes are the best choice. Here are some great alternatives:
- Soy Wax – A popular choice for homemade candles, soy wax is biodegradable, burns cleanly, and holds Fragrance well.
- Coconut Wax – Derived from coconuts, this wax has a smooth, creamy texture and provides a slow, even burn.
- Rapeseed Wax – A sustainable option that’s grown in Australia and known for its excellent scent throw and smooth finish.
Soy wax is the easiest to work with and widely available, making it an ideal option for beginners.
Essential Supplies
To get started with your DIY candle-making project, gather the following materials:
- Plant-based wax (soy, coconut, or rapeseed)
- Cotton or wooden wicks
- Glass jars or recycled candle containers
- Essential oils or natural fragrance oils
- A set of boilers or a heat-resistant vessel placed atop a saucepan.
- A thermometer
- A stirring utensil
- Wick holders or skewers to keep wicks in place
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Candle Jars
Clean and dry your chosen containers before beginning. Secure the wick in the centre of each jar using wick stickers or a dab of melted wax. Hold the wick in place by wrapping it around a skewer or clip.
2. Melt the Wax
Using a double boiler, gently melt the wax over low heat, stirring occasionally. If using soy wax, aim for a temperature of around 75°C. Avoid overheating, as this can affect the candle’s performance.
3. Add Fragrance
After melting, remove the wax from the heat and let it cool for a moment. Once the temperature approaches 65°C, apply 6-10% perfume oil or essential oil and mix well. Common scents include lavender, vanilla, citrous, and eucalyptus.
4. Pour the Wax
Carefully pour melted wax into prepared jars, leaving a centimetre at the top. Ensure the wick remains centred as the wax cools.
5. Let It Set
Let the candles cool and solidify for a minimum of 24 hours. Please keep them in a room-temperature setting to avoid cracks forming.
6. Trim the Wick & Enjoy
Once fully set, trim the wick to about 5mm to ensure a clean burn. Light your candle and enjoy the natural, plant-based glow!
Tips for Better Vegan Candles
- Choose high-quality essential oils – Synthetic fragrances may contain animal-derived ingredients, so opt for pure plant-based oils.
- Use recyclable or reusable containers – Glass jars, ceramic cups, or old candle containers work well for a sustainable approach.
- Experiment with natural dyes – If you want coloured candles, use plant-based dyes such as turmeric, beetroot powder, or spirulina.
Why Make Your Vegan Candles?
Homemade candles are not only better for the environment but also healthier for your home. Store-bought candles often contain synthetic chemicals that can release toxins into the air. By making your own, you eliminate harmful additives while enjoying a cleaner, longer-lasting burn.
Additionally, crafting your candles allows you to create personalised gifts for friends and family, tailored to their favourite scents and styles.
Final Thoughts
Making candles at home is a rewarding and sustainable practice that aligns with a cruelty-free lifestyle. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can create beautifully scented candles that are free from animal-derived materials. Whether for personal use or gifting, plant-based candles offer a cleaner, more ethical alternative to traditional options.
Now that you know how to make your own, gather your supplies and give it a try.