Candle making has become a hobby that many people enjoy. It is a creative and relaxing way to express yourself and make something that can actually be use in an emergency.

Although there are many different candle making kits on the market today, people have been making their own candles for centuries. From ordinary household emergency candles to fancy ornate decorative candles, creating your own candles can be a creative and satisfying experience.

When you decide to candle making is something you want to try, there are essential materials that you will need.

Wax – this can be found in any department or craft store. Wax comes in blocks weighing anywhere from one to five pounds.

Double Boiler – this is a pot that has two parts to it. A pot on the bottom for water, and an insert to place the wax in. If you do not have a double boiler, it is not necessary to go out and buy one, you can use any pot that you have available and place a metal bowl on top of it when the water boils. Another way that you can melt wax is to use a Teflon coated pot over extremely low heat. This method however can double the melting time of the wax.

Wicks – the wick is the rope-like material that you light when your candle is made. This can also be found in department and craft stores.

Fragrances and Dyes – if you want to get creative, these materials will allow you to express yourself in whatever manner you choose.

Container – you will need containers to pour the hot wax in when it has melted. Although any container except plastic will do, glass is the best choice because it is heat resistant.

Wooden spoon - you will need this to stir the wax to insure even melting and to distribute the fragrance and dyes.

Once you have all of the materials, it is time to start your candle making adventure. To start, fill the bottom half of the double boiler about one third of the way with water and bring it to a boil.

Put the insert on top of the boiling water and place the wax in it watching it very carefully so it does not burn.

Stir the wax frequently and when it has melted completely take the double boiler off of the heat. Add the dye or dyes that you want and stir till it is well mixed or until you get the desired effect.

Next, you will need to add the fragrance. Add a couple of drop at a time to insure that the scent is not too strong.

Cut the wick about half an inch above the rim of the container. Make sure that it rests on the bottom and start to pour the wax into the container, gently tapping it to get any air bubbles out. Make sure that you hold the wick so it does not sink to the bottom.

Depending on how big you make your candle, let it dry anywhere from twenty four to thirty six hours.

Candle making can be a fun way to spend time with your family. It is important that you take the necessary safety precaution, especially if small children are involved because the wax is extremely hot and can burn in seconds.