Tired of pesky mosquitoes ruining your outdoor fun? You’re not alone! But there’s a simple, natural solution: learn how to make mason jar citronella candles. These DIY candles not only repel bugs but also add a warm, inviting glow to your patio or garden. Let’s get started!
3 Easy Steps to Make Mason Jar Citronella Candles
Want to keep those pesky mosquitos away while adding a touch of charm to your outdoor space? Look no further than mason jar citronella candles! These DIY beauties are super easy to make and smell amazing, and they’re a perfect way to enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors without the annoying buzz.
Before: Your Setup
Before you get started, gather your supplies. You’ll need:
- Mason jars: Choose the size you want for your candles, but remember, smaller jars may burn out faster.
- Citronella essential oil: This is the star of the show, and you’ll need a good amount to create that mosquito-repelling scent.
- Soy wax flakes: Soy wax is a great choice for candles, as it burns cleanly and evenly.
- Wicks: You’ll need wicks that are the right size for your mason jars.
- Wooden skewers or chopsticks: These will help center your wicks.
- Double boiler or heat-safe pot and bowl: You’ll use this to melt your wax safely.
- Thermometer: This will help you monitor the temperature of the wax.
- Heat-resistant gloves: To protect your hands when handling hot wax.
- Optional:
- Essential oils for fragrance: Like lavender or eucalyptus, if you want to add extra scents.
- Dried herbs or flowers: To add a decorative touch.
- Dye: To color your candles.
After: Your Beautiful DIY Candles!
Imagine yourself relaxing on a warm summer night, enjoying the gentle scent of citronella while the flickering candles create a cozy atmosphere. No more pesky bugs bothering you! This is the “after” picture you’re working toward!
Bridge: The Steps – How to Make Mason Jar Citronella Candles
Now, let’s break down the steps to make your mason jar citronella candles:
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Start by cleaning your mason jars thoroughly with soap and water. Make sure to remove any labels or residue.
Secure the wicks to the bottom of the jars using a dab of hot glue. Make sure the wick is centered in the jar. You can use a wooden skewer to hold the wick in place while the glue dries.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
Heat the soy wax flakes in your double boiler or heat-safe pot and bowl on low heat, stirring occasionally.- Watch the Temperature! Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the wax. Ideally, you want to melt it to around 180 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your candles are solid and won’t melt easily.
Once the wax is melted and at the correct temperature, add your citronella essential oil. The amount of oil you use will depend on your preference, but a good starting point is about 20-30 drops per 8 ounces of soy wax.
Step 3: Pour the Wax and Let it Cool
Carefully pour the melted wax into your mason jars, making sure not to get any on the top rims. Use a wooden skewer to help remove any air bubbles. (Think of them like those “pop the bubble” games!)
Allow the candles to cool and set completely before trimming the wicks. This could take anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day, depending on the size of your jars.
Tips for Success
- To make your candles more attractive, consider adding a touch of color with some soy wax dye.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding dried herbs or flowers to your candles. Dried lavender works well with citronella!
- Burning Time: Be sure to trim your wicks to about ΒΌ inch before each burn. This helps your candles burn evenly and safely.
- Safety First: Always burn candles in a well-ventilated area and never leave them unattended.
Conclusion
With just a few simple steps, you can create your own beautiful and practical mason jar citronella candles. These candles will add a decorative touch to your porch, patio, or even your backyard. And the best part? You can customize them to suit your style and preferences. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a bug-free summer evening!
