A Very DIY Christmas (Part 2)

I know it's way past Christmas but trust me these DIY presents are perfect for any time of the year. Since I gave them as Christmas presents I had to wait until after to put them on the blog so I didn't ruin any Christmas gifts. So here goes the second round: Homemade Candles.
Let's start with the candles. Don't skip this because you think it's complicated or that you won't be able to make them. I got all my supplies at Michaels. My biggest tip is to sign up for their emails because you will be get emails all the time with coupons. I had a 50% off coupon which I used on the wax. I will start with your shopping list and pricing.
Supplies:
Mason jars (12) - $10.68
Wax (11# block)- $17
Liquid Scent- $5.99
Dye Block- $4.85
Wax Adhesive- $3.50
Wicks (with attached tabs)- $2.30/pack of 6
Glass container - already owned one
Popsicle sticks or something to hold up the wicks- already owned
Double boiler-made my own

Per candle that equals $3.89!!! Let's get started...

One thing you have to know about doing this project is that goes fast once you get started, so have all your supplies ready to go.

1. Attach the wicks to the center of the mason jars with a pea-size amount of wax adhesive. Make sure you press it down and hold for a few seconds to get it completely attached.

2. Take the block of wax outside because it will make a mess! Break the wax into chunks (I used a hammer and a screwdriver to break it up).

3. Set up a double boiler on the stove. Don't have one? That's okay, I made my own out of a pot and a pan. Boiling water in the bottom pot.

4. Once the wax melts down, shave some of the dye into the wax until you achieve your desired color. I used my veggie peeler to shave the dye. Stir it and add 1/8th tsp of the scent to the melted wax. You can add more scent depending on which you choose, I used a cinnamon spice scent so a little went a long way.

5. Stir a final time and pour into a glass container to transport to the jars. I used a gallon sized glass measuring cup. The pouring spout made it easy to pour into the jars.

6. Once you pour it, grab your popsicle sticks (or something to hold the wicks in place) and make sure those wicks are held tight in the center of the candles. As they start to harden take a skewer or pencil (something long and skinny) to poke a couple holes near the wick to allow the extra air to escape.

7. Allow the candles to fully cool down before moving them. I let them sit for 3 days.

Then just add some ribbon or any special touches to personalize the candles for the holiday or event. Here's a look at my finished product.
Good luck and let me know if you have any questions!

Jenny