Many families have holiday traditions that span generations. From cooking a protected family recipe to cutting down a Christmas tree, whatever the tradition is, it’s cherished to those who do them for the smiles they bring each year.

But with time comes change. Family members move, children grow up, babies are born, and people start to look for new traditions to incorporate into the holidays. For those who are looking, we have an idea that will light up smiles of those who participate.

The flickering light and fragrant scents of candles bring a warm and fuzzy feeling to a home, which is perfect during the holiday season. Gathering together and making your own candles is a new family tradition that you and your family could look forward to each year.

SUPPLIES:

Soy Wax Flakes:

Unlike candles made with paraffin, natural soy candles burn cleaner and the wax is easier to clean if spilled, making this a tradition the entire family can enjoy.

Essential Oils:

Although there are stronger synthetic fragrances, essential oils are organic, which some parents prefer for candle-making with kids. Of course, there are pros and cons to each, so we recommend finding what works best for you.

Containers:

Purchase containers or find items around your house. Old mason jars, teacups or mugs are all great ideas, but the possibilities are endless!

Candlewicks:

Waxed candlewicks with the metal bottom will be your best option for this project. The size of the candlewick will depend on the size of your candle, but those details should be listed on the candlewick packaging.

You will also need a large microwave-safe glass bowl.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Place wicks in candle containers. If it’s hard to get the wick to stay in place, try hot glue to keep the wick centrally aligned within the container.

2. To measure your wax flakes, take one of the containers you will be turning into a candle. Fill with the flakes so that it’s about an inch or so from the top. Dump that into the large glass bowl. Now, repeat. The dry wax flakes will melt down to about half the original amount, so you will use a 2:1 ratio.

3. Place the bowl with the wax flakes for one candle in your microwave and heat in 5 to 10-second intervals, stirring between each heating. You want your wax to be in a liquid state, but do not want to burn it.

4. Remove from the microwave and let it cool a few minutes. High heat will reduce the scent of the essential oils so letting it cool a bit will help keep your candles fragrant when burning.

5. Now you can add in your essential oils. This is the fun part where kids can personalize a scent and make it their own. How much oil you add to your candle depends on how strong you’d like it to smell. It’s really up to the candle maker!

6. Once your oils are mixed, you can add the melted wax to your candle container. To help keep your wick centered and stable, lean it against a pencil or chopstick. Let it sit for 24 hours and you’re ready to strike a match!

The how-to portion is only one part of this tradition. Make it your own! Whether it’s new or old, we hope your family traditions bring smiles to the faces of those you care about each year.