I've always had in interest in creating my own candles, and once I started reading about the benefits of soy candles I knew I was sold on the idea. Soy wax is derived from vegetables, while it's counter partner is paraffin wax. Paraffin wax contains up to 11 carcinogenic compounds which have been labeled as toxic air contaminants, while soy wax contains zero toxins. Soy candles also burn slower than paraffin wax, giving your candle a longer burn life.
I purchased soy wax and candle wicks at my local craft store. I also purchased old glass jars from the thrift store and some old candle votives I already had at home. I first melted the wax on low on the stove top, and added in lavender and vanilla essential oil once it melted. Next, I dipped the end of the wick in the wax and secured it at the bottom inside of the jar/votive. I purchased wicks with a small metal plate at the end, making the previous step an easy process. Next, I filled each jar with wax to the desired height. To keep the wick in the middle of the jar, I attached a piece of masking tape to each side, crossing through the middle, and taped the wick in the middle until the wax began to cool.
I'm not advising you need to go and throw out all your old candles, but maybe consider next time you start to buy a new one, making your own soy candles instead! Over the past year we've slowly but surely been taking on a more clean, organic lifestyle. For us, making this slow transition has made the process smooth, exciting, cost effective. If living an organic lifestyle is something you've been interested in but have yet to take the plunge, try starting with little things. Each small step can make all the difference!
