Candle making is a fun and creative activity that you can enjoy with your kids. Not only is it a great way to spend quality time together, but it also helps your children develop their creativity, problem-solving skills, and fine motor skills. Plus, they'll have a great sense of pride and accomplishment when they see their own handmade candles burning brightly.
To get started, you'll need a few basic materials such as wax, wicks, a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, and a heat-resistant container or jar. You can also add some fragrance oils or other fragrances to give your candles a unique scent.
Here are the steps to follow to make candles with your kids:
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Gather your materials. Make sure you have everything you need before you start the project to avoid any interruptions.
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Prepare the container. If you are using a jar or container with a narrow opening, it is a good idea to use a candle wick sticker to keep the wick centered. Simply place the sticker on the bottom of the jar and press the wick onto it. If you are using a container with a wider opening, you can simply place the wick in the center and hold it in place with a piece of tape or a clothespin.
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Melt the wax. You can do this using a double boiler or by melting the wax in the microwave. If using a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the wax in the top pot and let it melt, stirring occasionally. If using the microwave, place the wax in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the wax is fully melted.
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Add fragrances (optional). If you want to add a fragrance to your candle, now is the time to do it. Simply mix a few drops of your chosen fragrance oil or other fragrance into the melted wax.
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Pour the wax. Once the wax is fully melted and any fragrances have been added, it's time to pour the wax into the container. Make sure the wick is still centered and held in place, then slowly pour the wax into the container. If the wax begins to cool and harden before you've finished pouring, simply microwave it for a few more seconds until it becomes liquid again.
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Cool and trim the wick. Now it's time to let the candle cool and solidify. This will take several hours, so be patient. Once the candle is fully cooled, you may notice that the wick has shifted or that it is too long. Simply trim the wick to about ¼ inch using a pair of scissors or a wick trimmer.
And that's it! With these simple steps, you and your kids can enjoy the fun and creativity of making your own candles at home. Whether you choose to make scented candles or opt for a more natural approach, candle making is a great way to bond with your children and create something special together.