Candlemaking
Practical Action
Container candles
Container candles (also known as votive candles) are small candles set in a heat-proof container.
They are extremely simple to produce and are popular as decorative items and are usually sold as
fragranced candles. In their most basic form they are made from a heat resistant container filled
with wax with a central wick.
Method
Choosing appropriate containers for the production of container candles is important. The
container must be safe, even when the candle has been burning for a long period. Heat resistant
materials such as metal tins, ceramics and glass are ideal, although care must be taken with glass
as it sometimes has a tendency to crack or shatter when heated. The selection of wax is also
important, as it should be a type of wax that burns slowly and that has low shrinkage. If the wax
shrinks too much it will not stay in place in the container and may form ugly sinkholes around the
wick as it cools. Most natural waxes are ideal for container candles, and beeswax is perfect.
While the wax is melting, prime a wick that is slightly longer than the depth of the container and
attach a small weight to the bottom of the wick (purpose made metal wick sustainers are ideal). If
scent and colour are required add them to the liquid wax and stir. Carefully pour the liquid wax
into the container to the desired level and then place the wick into position using a long needle or
stick to suspend it. Allow the wax to cool slowly and trim the wick.
Figure 8: Container candles
1. Prepare and prime wick
2. Position wick centrally in container
3. Pour wax
4. Allow to cool and trim wick
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Colours and scents
The appeal of a container candles is usually a combination of visual beauty and aromatic
fragrance. Use colours that compliment the scents and try adding embedded decoration such as
flowers or petals.
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