Concrete jar candles are a perfect blend of modern aesthetics and functionality, adding a touch of minimalist elegance to any space. At Dore Studio, we love creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also practical. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to make your own concrete jar candles at home. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, this tutorial will help you create stunning candles that you can proudly display or gift.
Materials You’ll Need
Before we dive in, gather the following materials:
• Concrete mix (you can find this at any hardware store)
• Water (for mixing the concrete)
• Candle wax (we recommend 100% soy wax for a clean burn)
• Wicks (wooden wicks work great for a rustic look)
• Wick holders (to keep your wick centered)
• Fragrance oils (optional, but adds a lovely scent to your candles)
• Mixing bowls (one for concrete, one for wax)
• Silicone mold or container (to shape your concrete jar)
• Sanding paper (for smoothing out the concrete)
• Heatproof jar (if you’re using a concrete mold instead of pouring directly into a jar)
• Double boiler (for melting the wax)
• Stirring sticks (to mix the wax and concrete)
• Measuring cups (for accuracy)
Step 1: Prepare the Concrete Jar
1. Mix the Concrete: In a mixing bowl, combine your concrete mix with water according to the package instructions. Stir until you achieve a smooth consistency, similar to thick batter.
2. Pour into the Mold: Pour the concrete mixture into your silicone mold or chosen container. Tap the sides gently to release any air bubbles.
3. Insert the Wick Holder: If you’re using a heatproof jar to hold the wax, ensure the center is marked so you can insert the wick later. Let the concrete set for 24 hours until it’s completely hardened.
4. Unmold and Sand: Once the concrete has cured, carefully remove it from the mold. Use sanding paper to smooth out any rough edges for a polished finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Candle
1. Melt the Wax: Using a double boiler, melt your soy wax until it reaches a liquid state. Be sure to keep an eye on the temperature, keeping it below 180°F (82°C) to prevent the wax from burning.
2. Add Fragrance: If you’re adding a scent, remove the wax from heat and stir in your fragrance oil. The recommended ratio is 1 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax.
3. Prepare the Wick: Secure your wick with a wick holder and place it in the center of your concrete jar. Make sure it’s straight and stable.
4. Pour the Wax: Carefully pour the melted wax into the concrete jar, ensuring the wick stays centered. Leave a little space at the top to prevent overflow.
5. Let it Set: Allow the candle to cool and harden completely. This process can take a few hours, so be patient for the best results.
6. Trim the Wick: Once your candle has fully set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch to ensure a clean burn.
Step 3: Enjoy Your Concrete Jar Candle
Congratulations! You’ve just made your own concrete jar candle. Light it up, and enjoy the warm glow and subtle fragrance that fills your space. These candles not only look stylish but also make for thoughtful, handmade gifts.
Tips and Tricks
• Customize Your Mold: Get creative with the shapes and sizes of your concrete jars by using different molds.
• Experiment with Colors: Add concrete pigment to your mix for a pop of color.
• Test Burn Time: For best results, let your candle cure for 24-48 hours before lighting it.
Making concrete jar candles is a rewarding and fun DIY project that brings a unique charm to your home. Plus, they’re a beautiful representation of modern minimalism, just like the pieces we craft at Dore Studio. If you’re inspired but prefer ready-made options, explore our collection of handmade candles that reflect the same care and craftsmanship you’ll find in this guide.
Happy crafting!
For more DIY projects, tips, and inspiration, stay tuned to our blog and explore our products at Dore Studio.
