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Valentine’s Day is all about showing love, and what better way to say “I care” than with a handmade gift? If you’re short on time or don’t have access to fancy supplies, don’t worry—you can still create a beautiful and thoughtful candle in a jar with just a few simple ingredients and tools. Let’s get started!
Let’s Make Your DIY Candle in a Jar
What You’ll Need
Here’s a list of items you’ll need to create a Valentine’s Day candle using limited ingredients:
- Wax: Old candle scraps, a store-bought candle, or even crayons (if you’re feeling colorful)
- Container: A small mason jar, jam jar, or any heatproof glass jar you have at home
- Wick: A pre-tabbed wick, or DIY one using cotton string soaked in wax
- Fragrance (Optional): A few drops of essential oil (like lavender, vanilla, or rose)
- Coloring (Optional): Crayons for an easy, vibrant tint
- Heat Source: A microwave or a double boiler setup with a saucepan and a heatproof bowl
- Wooden Skewer or Chopstick: To hold the wick in place
- Glue or Sticky Tack: To secure the wick to the jar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wick
If you don’t have a pre-made wick, make your own by dipping a piece of cotton string into melted wax and letting it cool. Use glue or sticky tack to secure the base of the wick to the bottom center of your jar. Wrap the top of the wick around a skewer or chopstick to keep it upright.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
- If using old candles: Break them into smaller pieces, removing any leftover wick.
- If using crayons: Peel the paper off and break them into pieces to add vibrant color.
Place the wax in a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds in the microwave, stirring in between) until fully melted.
Step 3: Add Color and Scent
Once the wax is melted, you can add color and fragrance:
- Add crayon pieces for a pop of color.
- Stir in a few drops of essential oil for a subtle, soothing scent.
Step 4: Pour the Wax
Carefully pour the melted wax into your jar, holding the wick in place. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jar.
Step 5: Let It Cool
Allow the wax to cool and harden completely, which may take 1-2 hours. Trim the wick to about ¼ inch once the candle has fully set.
Step 6: Decorate Your Jar
Wrap your jar with a ribbon, attach a handwritten tag, or use stickers to add a festive Valentine’s Day touch. If you have dried flowers or herbs, you can sprinkle them on top of the wax before it hardens for a romantic look.
TIP FOR BEGINNERS
If you are new to making DIY candles at home, be sure to check out our DIY Candle Troubleshooting Guide. It will help answer all of your questions and show you how to fix candles that aren’t burning correctly, have a lower-than-expected scent, and so much more.
Why This Candle Is Perfect for a Valentine’s Day Gift
This DIY project is quick, affordable, and customizable. With just a few everyday items, you can create a candle that feels personal and heartfelt—perfect for gifting or setting the mood for a cozy Valentine’s evening.
Pro Tip: Use jars of different sizes to create a “candle trio” for an extra-special gift set.
Please note: This website contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
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