Summer is here and so are the mosquitoes! If you love outdoor entertaining, then you know how frustrating it can be when pesky bugs ruin your perfect evening. Citronella candles are a great solution to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay, and what’s better than creating your citronella candles for an affordable price? In this blog post, we will show you how to make your DIY Citronella Mason Jar Candles using basic jars, purchased wicks, and some other essential materials.
Choosing the Right Jars
Before starting, it is important to choose the right type of jars. For this project, we recommend using mason jars as they are durable and offer a timeless look. Moreover, the size of the jars depends on how many candles you want to make, and it’s better to use a quart size for outdoor entertaining. Ensure you have thoroughly washed and dried the jars before starting.
Selecting your Wicks
The wick is the most critical component of the candle, making sure you get the right ones for your DIY project is essential. Wicks come in various sizes, depending on the size of your jar, and the type of wax you're using. For this project, we recommend purchasing pre-waxed wicks for convenience. You can purchase wicks and other materials from craft stores.
Creating the Citronella Candle Mixture
The next step is to create the citronella candle mixture that goes in the jars. For this recipe, we will be using basic ingredients that are readily available. Here is a list of what you need:
- Citronella essential oil (15-20 drops)
- Soy wax flakes (1 pound)
- Wick (14-inch length)
- Mason jars (quart size)
- Wooden skewers or chopsticks (to hold the wicks)
Instructions for Making the Citronella Candle Mixture
- Melt the Soy Wax Flakes: Start by melting soy wax flakes in a glass measuring cup or double boiler. You can also use a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally. But, remember that it’s better to melt the wax on low heat to avoid it from overheating.
- Add the Essential Oil: Once the soy wax has melted, remove it from heat and add 15-20 drops of citronella essential oil and stir well. You can also customize the scent by adding other essential oils you like, but citronella oil is a perfect insect repellent!
- Attach the Wick: Dip your wick in the hot wax and let it cool for a few seconds. Then, center your wick in the mason jar, securing it with a wooden skewer or chopstick.
- Pour the Wax Mixture: Slowly pour the melted wax, making sure the wick stays in the center. It is better to leave a half-inch space between the wax and the lid of the jar.
- Let the Candle Cool: Allow the mixture to cool for several hours until it’s hardening. Trim the wick once it’s hardened to your preferred length.
Conclusion
Creating your citronella mason jar candles is a fun and affordable way to keep insects at bay while enjoying outdoor gatherings. Not only do they smell good, but they’re also stylish and functional. These candles are perfect table centerpieces that everyone will love. You can make plenty of them and store them for several months, so why not make your citronella mason jar candles now to stay prepared for all the upcoming BBQs and outdoor events. Remember to use plastic jar candles instead of glass for your next project! Happy crafting!