How To Make Floating Candles

Introduction

How To Make Floating Candles: Welcome to the world of enchanting ambiance and mesmerizing illumination! Floating candles are a delightful addition to any space, exuding a serene and ethereal glow. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a cozy bath, or a captivating event, learning how to make floating candles will allow you to create a captivating atmosphere that captivates all who behold it. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of crafting these delightful floating candles, offering you the knowledge and techniques to bring a touch of magic to your surroundings. So let’s dive in and embark on this illuminating journey together! First, let’s gather the necessary materials. 

You will need:

Paraffin wax or soy wax: Choose a high-quality wax specifically designed for candle making. Paraffin wax is widely available and affordable, while soy wax is a more natural and eco-friendly option.

Candle wicks: Select pre-tabbed wicks that are suitable for floating candles. These wicks should be long enough to extend above the water’s surface.

Heat-resistant containers: Look for small, shallow containers that can withstand heat and hold the melted wax. Glass or metal containers are commonly used for floating candles.

Wick stickers or adhesive: This will help secure the wicks to the bottom of the containers.

Essential oils or candle fragrance (optional): If you desire scented floating candles, choose fragrances that are safe for candle making. Essential oils or candle-specific fragrances work best.

Dye or color blocks (optional): If you wish to add color to your floating candles, select dye specifically designed for candle making. Alternatively, color blocks can be used to achieve the desired hue.

Double boiler or a makeshift setup: You will need a heat-resistant container to melt the wax. A double boiler is the safest option, but you can also create a makeshift setup using a heat-resistant container placed in a pot of boiling water.

Thermometer: To ensure the wax reaches the appropriate temperature for pouring, a thermometer is essential.

How do you get candles to float?

A floating candle is a candle that when placed in water displaces more water by weight than the weight of the candle. So when it’s placed in water it floats! However, not every candle can float! These candles are usually made in a round shape that allows it to float evenly where placed. Floating candles can create a beautiful and enchanting ambiance. 

To make candles float, follow these steps:

Choose the right candles: Opt for small, flat-bottomed candles, such as tea lights or floating candles. These are specifically designed for floating.

Select a suitable container: Find a wide and shallow container, like a bowl or a glass vase. Ensure the container is clean and free from any water or debris.

Fill the container with water: Pour enough water into the container, leaving ample space for the candles to float without getting submerged or extinguished.

Prepare the candles: Remove any packaging or wrapping from the candles. If the candles have a metal or plastic base, trim it to make a flat surface.

Place the candles gently on the water surface: Carefully position the candles onto the water, ensuring they float steadily. If needed, adjust their position using a toothpick or a skewer.

Light the candles: Use a long-reach lighter or a matchstick to ignite the candles, taking care not to burn yourself. Enjoy the mesmerizing sight of the floating candles!

What liquid is used for floating candles?

These water candles require no wax. We’ll use vegetable oil instead of wax as fuel. When we add water at the bottom of a bowl and oil on the top, they will not mix, which means water will not get into the flame to extinguish it. A floating wick will absorb the oil and feed the flame. The liquid used for floating candles is typically water. Water is widely available, safe to use, and provides a stable base for the candles to float. When preparing floating candles, it is important to use clean and clear water without any impurities or additives. Tap water or distilled water can be used, depending on the desired level of purity.

Adding other liquids to the container can be done for decorative purposes or to enhance the visual appeal. For example, colored water or water with a few drops of food coloring can create an interesting effect. Some people also add flower petals, herbs, or essential oils to the water to infuse fragrance and add a touch of elegance.

However, it’s important to note that using flammable liquids or liquids that are not specifically designed for candle use can be dangerous and should be avoided. Always prioritize safety when experimenting with different liquids and ensure that the chosen liquid is compatible with candles and won’t pose a fire hazard.

Can you use regular candles as floating candles?

Well, most normal candles can’t float on water. From my experience, a candle that has a smaller base with a wide top will float very well. Steer clear of those round ball-shaped floating candles because they seem to spin and flip as they float, which leads to their wick extinguishing. While regular candles can technically be used as floating candles, they may not be the most practical or efficient option. Regular candles are typically designed to be placed in holders or on a stable surface, which means they may not have the necessary buoyancy to float on water.

Floating candles, on the other hand, are specifically designed to be buoyant and remain afloat in water. They are typically made with specific materials and shapes that allow them to float steadily and safely. Floating candles often have a wide base or a hollow center, which helps with buoyancy.

Using regular candles as floating candles can be risky as they may not stay upright or could tip over, posing a fire hazard. Additionally, the wax from regular candles may not be formulated to withstand contact with water, which could result in undesirable effects or extinguishing of the flame. For the best results and safety, it’s recommended to use candles specifically designed for floating purposes. They are readily available in various sizes, shapes, and colors, ensuring a stable and enchanting floating experience.

Will candle wax float in water?

Wax is a buoyant material, which means that it normally floats, rather than sinks, in water. Wax floats because it is less dense than the water. No, candle wax does not float in water. Wax is denser than water, so it will sink when placed in a container filled with water. This is because the density of an object determines whether it will float or sink in a liquid. Objects with a higher density than the liquid they are placed in will sink, while objects with a lower density will float.

Floating candles are specifically designed with a flat-bottomed shape and lighter materials that enable them to float on the water’s surface. These candles often have a wax shell or coating around a core that helps them float while still providing the desired candlelight.

If you place a regular candle made of solid wax into water, it will sink. The wax will not float independently. However, it’s worth noting that if the wax is melted and poured into a mold designed for floating candles, it can solidify in a shape that allows it to float when placed on water.

What materials do I need to make floating candles?

To make floating candles, you will need a few key materials. 

Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Candle wax: Choose a wax that is specifically designed for candle-making, such as soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax.

Candle wicks: Select wicks that are suitable for floating candles. You can find pre-tabbed wicks that are already coated with wax for easy use.

Wick tabs: These metal tabs will be attached to the bottom of the wicks to help secure them in place.

Fragrance oil or essential oil (optional): If you want scented floating candles, choose a fragrance oil or essential oil of your preference.

Candle dye or color blocks (optional): If you desire colored floating candles, use candle dye or color blocks to add the desired hue.

Heat-resistant containers: Find small heat-resistant containers like metal or glass bowls, ramekins, or tea light cups that can hold the melted wax and float in water.

Double boiler or a heatproof container and a saucepan: Use a double boiler to melt the wax gently and safely. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can create one by placing a heatproof container inside a saucepan with simmering water.

Thermometer: A thermometer will help you monitor the temperature of the wax to ensure it’s within the appropriate range.

Stirring utensil: Choose a heatproof tool like a wooden spoon or a dedicated candle-making stirring utensil to mix the wax and other ingredients.

Scissors: You’ll need scissors to trim the wicks to the desired length.

Optional decorations: If you want to embellish your floating candles, consider adding dried flowers, herbs, or small decorative items like glitter or seashells.

How do I secure the wicks to the bottom of the containers?

Securing the wicks to the bottom of the containers is essential to ensure they remain upright and centered as the wax solidifies. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Prepare your containers: Clean and dry the containers you will be using for your floating candles.

Attach the wick tabs: Take each wick and thread it through the metal wick tab. Make sure the tab is positioned in the middle of the wick.

Position the wick tabs: Place a small amount of hot glue or adhesive at the bottom center of the container. Press the wick tab onto the glue, ensuring it sticks firmly to the bottom.

Secure the wicks: To further secure the wicks, you can also use a small dot of melted wax from a lit candle or a hot glue gun to affix the wick tab to the bottom of the container.

Straighten the wicks: Gently pull the wicks taut and straight so that they stand upright in the center of the container. You can use a clothespin or pencil laid across the top of the container to help keep the wick centered.

Allow the glue or wax to set: Let the glue or wax cool and harden completely, ensuring that the wicks are securely attached to the bottom of the containers.

Can I add color or scent to my floating candles, and if so, how?

Yes, you can absolutely add color and scent to your floating candles to further enhance their appeal and create a captivating ambiance. Adding color can be achieved using dye specifically designed for candle making or color blocks. Start by melting the wax in a double boiler or makeshift setup and then stir in the desired amount of colorant until it is evenly distributed. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed.

To add fragrance to your floating candles, you have a couple of options. One option is to use candle-specific fragrances or essential oils. These are specifically formulated for candle making and will provide a pleasant and long-lasting scent. Begin by adding a few drops of fragrance or essential oil to the melted wax, stirring well to ensure it is evenly mixed. Adjust the amount according to your desired scent intensity.

Another method is to use scented wax pellets or pre-scented wax, which eliminates the need for additional fragrance additives. Simply melt the scented wax and proceed with the floating candle-making process as usual.

What are some creative ideas for decorating or enhancing the visual appeal of floating candles?

Decorating and enhancing the visual appeal of floating candles can add a touch of creativity and charm to your creations. 

Here are some creative ideas to consider:

Flower petals: Scatter fresh or dried flower petals on the water surface around the floating candles. Choose petals that complement the candle color or go for contrasting colors for an eye-catching effect.

Floating herbs: Add a natural and aromatic touch by placing small sprigs of herbs like lavender, rosemary, or mint on the water. The herbs will release a pleasant fragrance as the candles burn.

Glitter or confetti: Sprinkle a pinch of glitter or colorful confetti on the water to create a shimmering effect. Choose biodegradable options to minimize environmental impact.

Colored water: Experiment with adding a few drops of food coloring or liquid fabric dye to the water to create a colored backdrop for your floating candles. Coordinate the water color with the theme or use multiple colors for a vibrant display.

Floating lanterns: Surround your floating candles with mini paper lanterns or decorative glass lanterns. These lanterns will add an enchanting glow and create a captivating ambiance.

Submersible LED lights: Place small waterproof LED lights in the water to create an ethereal glow. Opt for different colors or color-changing lights for a mesmerizing effect.

Seashells or gemstones: Float seashells or small gemstones like colorful marbles or glass beads around the candles to enhance the visual interest. Choose items that match the overall theme or color scheme.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have now learned the art of making floating candles. With a few simple steps and some creativity, you can bring a touch of enchantment and tranquility to any setting. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the process. Take precautions when working with hot wax and ensure proper ventilation in your workspace. Always follow manufacturer instructions for the materials you are using.

Experiment with different container shapes, sizes, colors, and scents to create a unique and personalized floating candle experience. Consider adding decorative elements like flower petals, seashells, or small figurines to enhance the visual appeal. Floating candles make wonderful gifts for loved ones or charming additions to special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, or cozy evenings at home. The soft, flickering glow of these candles will undoubtedly create an atmosphere of serenity and magic. Now it’s time to unleash your creativity and enjoy the calming radiance of your handmade floating candles. Embrace the beauty and tranquility they bring as you immerse yourself in their gentle glow. Happy candle making!