How Do You Put Color In A Candle?

Candles come in a variety of colors today, but this wasn’t always the case. Historically, candles were mainly uncolored until the 19th century when manufacturers started experimenting with adding dyes and other colorants (THAVMAPub, 2016). Coloring candles serves both decorative and symbolic purposes. Different colors can set a mood, mark a holiday, represent a fragrance, or coordinate with home decor. There are many techniques available to add color to candles, ranging from simply using colored wicks to layering differently colored wax.

Dyeing Wax

The most common method for adding color to candles is to melt the wax down and mix in candle dye. Wax can be dyed by using either solid wax dye blocks or liquid oil-based dyes. Liquid dyes are easier to work with and blend smoothly into the melted wax, providing even color distribution (https://www.amazon.com/Candle-dye-Oil-Based-Concentrate-Natural/dp/B0CH16W6QX). Solid wax dye blocks need to be shaved or grated into the wax as it melts. Both oil-based and wax-based dyes work well for dyeing candles.

Typically, you will use around 1/2 teaspoon of liquid dye or 1/8 teaspoon of solid dye per pound of wax. Adding more dye will create a deeper, richer color. Start with less dye and add more if needed to achieve the desired color saturation. Always add the dye slowly and stir thoroughly to fully incorporate the color. Too much dye can make the color blotchy. For a multicolor effect, melt wax in separate containers and dye each one a different color. Then layer the colors by pouring them into the container in stages.

Using Colored Wicks

One way to add color to candles is by using colored wicks. Wicks are typically made from materials like cotton, wood, or paper. Certain dyes can be added to these wick materials during production to create vibrant colors like red, blue, purple, pink, orange, black, and more. The colored wicks create a visual pop of color in the candle when lit.

The colored wicks will also influence the color of the flame. A blue wick might create a blue tinted flame, while a red wick produces a reddish flame. This can add some fun color effects while the candle is burning. However, the wick color does not affect how the wax burns or the scent of the candle. It is purely decorative.

Colored wicks can be purchased from most candle and soap making suppliers. Major brands like Candlewic and Lone Star Candle Supply offer multi-colored wick options. Etsy shops are another great source for hand dyed, colorful wicks. Choose colored wicks based on the style and look you want for your candles.

Adding Color Chips

Adding small color chips is a simple way to create visual interest in candles. Chips come in an array of different colors, shapes and materials.

Common materials used for color chips include:

• Beeswax – Small beeswax pieces naturally retain color well and add texture.
• Crayons – Shavings or chunks of crayon wax provide vibrant color.
• Candle Wax – Leftover wax bits or colored wax chips easily adhere.
• Dried Flowers – Dried flower petals and leaves bring natural hues.

To add chips, wait until candle wax has cooled slightly after pouring and begins to thicken. Then sprinkle chips across the top so they can sink into the wax. Chips may float at first but become embedded as wax hardens.

The chips burn away during the candle’s first few uses, emitting scent and revealing interesting melted wax pools underneath. Too many additives can impact burn quality, so use chips sparingly.

Layering Waxes

One popular technique for adding color to candles is to layer different colored waxes. This creates a striped or layered effect within the candle. Proper adhesion between the wax layers is important for the structural integrity and appearance of the candle.

To create distinct layers, first prepare the different colored waxes according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow each colored wax to cool slightly before pouring into the container or mold. Carefully pour each layer of wax slowly over a spoon or dowel to prevent mixing of the colors. Allow the wax to cool completely between layers. Repeat with additional colors as desired.

There are a few tips to ensure proper adhesion of the layers:

• Use wax with similar melt points for each layer. This helps the layers adhere as the wax cools.
• Allow each layer to fully setup before adding the next. Rushing this step can cause layers to detach.
• If pouring into a container, choose one with straight sides vs tapered sides. This makes layering easier.

When layering in a mold, avoid disturbance or tilting of the mold after pouring each layer. Some choose to use double sided tape to stabilize the wick and prevent movement between layers. Proper wicking is also important to promote full melt pooling of each distinct layer.

Painting Candles

Painting candles is a popular way to add color and intricate designs. Acrylic and oil-based paints work best on wax surfaces. Avoid water-based paints like watercolor or gouache as they will not properly adhere to the wax. Be sure to use paints designed for nonporous surfaces like glass or ceramics.

When painting candles, start with a basecoat in a light color to help the design colors pop. Let the basecoat dry completely before adding any designs. Use various sized brushes for details. Blending, stippling, or dry brush techniques work well. Metallic paints can add a beautiful shimmer. Consider adding decorative elements like glitter or sand between paint layers for texture.

After finishing the paint design, it is important to seal the candle to protect the paint. Specialty varnishes and sealers like Mod Podge or triple thick glaze work well. Multiple thin layers of sealer are better than one thick layer. Allow each coat to fully dry before adding the next. Too much sealer may cause paint to crack or peel. Properly sealing painted candles will keep the designs vibrant and protected from heat and light when burned.

Using Dyes on Containers

Dyeing the candle’s container is another great way to incorporate color into your candlemaking. Glass and metals like tin and aluminum work especially well for absorbing dye. Plastics can also be dyed, but may not yield as vibrant results.

For glass, powdered glass dye is readily available online and at most craft stores. Simply mix the powdered dye with water in a glass container per the instructions. Submerge your glass candle holder in the solution and let it soak until it reaches the desired hue. Metallic containers can be dyed using a similar process with metal dye solutions.

Another option is to use paints and inks to tint candle jars and other holders. Acrylic paint pens allow you to draw designs directly onto glass. Alcohol inks are translucent and can create a stained glass effect. You can also use spray paints, artist acrylics, and more. Just be sure any paints are rated for high temperatures if the container will be close to the candle flame.

In addition to glass and metal, you can dye other materials like wood, cement, or terra cotta to coordinate with your homemade candles. Always check that any dyes or paints are non-toxic and safe for candle use. Get creative with patterns, textures, and colors on your candle vessels!

Adding Embellishments

A fun and easy way to add interest and color to candles is by adding embellishments like glitter, confetti, and dried flowers. Glitter and confetti can add a festive or celebratory look, while dried flowers and herbs can provide a more natural, aromatic ambiance.

To add embellishments, it’s important to adhere them properly so they don’t fall or float off when the candle is lit. Craftgossip recommends using hot glue to firmly attach embellishments to the wax surface. Allow the glue to cool and harden before lighting the candle. Alternatively, you can brush melted wax over the embellishment to act as a sealant.

When adding flammable embellishments like dried flowers, glitter, or confetti, use extra caution. Keep them away from the wick, as they can ignite when the candle burns down. The embellishments are mainly for decorative appeal before lighting.

Overall, embellishments are an easy DIY technique to transform plain candles into decorative, gift-worthy pieces. Just take care in adhering them properly, and consider burn safety with flammable materials.

Aroma and Color

Certain scents are known to complement specific colors in candles. When creating colored candles, it’s important to consider pairing fragrance oils that will enhance the visual experience.

Research has shown connections between colors and scents. For example, light and bright citrus fragrances like orange and lemon tend to pair well with energetic colors like yellow and orange. Florals like rose and jasmine complement softer pink or purple candles. Mint and eucalyptus scents match nicely with cool blues and greens.

Woodsy fragrances like pine or cedar can enhance earthy browns, while vanilla and other sweet scents pair well with creams. Ocean breezes and water notes work with shades of blue. Studies have even shown that people associate certain colors with specific qualities – yellow is seen as uplifting, navy blue as masculine, and purple as soothing.

Considering color psychology and fragrance notes is an important part of candle making. Choosing complementary scents and shades creates a more immersive, multi-sensory experience for the candle user.

Safety Tips

When working with dyes to color candles, proper safety precautions should be taken:

Ventilation – Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from melted wax or dye vapors. Open windows, use fans, or work outdoors if possible. Avoid breathing in dye powders when measuring.

Allergy Testing – Do a skin patch test before using any new dye, especially on candles that will be burned. Put a small dab on your arm and wait 24 hours to check for redness or irritation which could indicate an allergy.

Fire Safety – Never leave melting wax or burning candles unattended. Have a fire extinguisher on hand. Store candles away from flammable items and out of reach of children and pets. Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before lighting to avoid excess smoking.

Taking proper precautions allows you to safely add beautiful colors to candles without endangering yourself or others. Refer to dye manufacturer instructions as well for any specific safety information. With some simple safety measures, you can enjoy coloring candles with minimal risks.