Illuminating Summer Evenings: DIY Citronella Candles in Mason Jars

Summer’s magic lies in its long, balmy evenings. But as much as we adore the season, it’s often accompanied by pesky flying insects. I have just the solution – homemade Citronella candles in mason jars. Not only do they effectively keep bugs at bay, but they also double as charming décor, casting a warm, inviting glow on our outdoor spaces. In this post, I will guide you through the simple process of creating your own Citronella candles.

Ingredients Selection

The first and most crucial ingredient we need is wax. There are two well-known options: paraffin and soy. Paraffin wax, a petroleum-based product, is widely used due to its affordability and excellent characteristics for holding color and scent. In contrast, soy wax, which is derived from soybean oil, boasts a slower burn time and is more eco-friendly although its scent throw might be less potent. Both have their merits, and your choice will depend on your personal preference and priorities.

Next, we need to talk about fragrance. The key to a successful Citronella candle lies in its scent, which, aside from being pleasantly lemony, has the power to repel insects. While you can use essential oils, you also have the option of specially curated fragrance oils that often feature a vast array of scents, even ones that surprise you!

We mustn’t forget color. Adding hue to your candles can enhance their aesthetic appeal. Crayons or dye blocks are generally used but ensure the coloring doesn’t interfere with the scent output. Alternatively, you can leave out the color for a natural, rustic look.

The Creation Process

After accumulating your ingredients, it’s time to move to the exciting part – the creation of your Citronella candles.

Firstly, fill a pan with water and bring it to the boil. Place your wax in a heat-proof jar and set this jar into the boiling water to allow the wax to melt. Once melted, let it cool slightly before adding your chosen color and fragrance oil. Stir well to ensure these additions smoothly incorporate into the wax.

Take your mason jars and place a wick in each, making sure it reaches the bottom. A tip to keep the wick upright while you work is to tie its end to a pen or pencil resting on the jar mouth. Once you’ve secured your wicks, carefully pour in your fragrant wax.

Allow everything to cool and solidify. This waiting period is crucial as a quick cooling process can create unsightly cracks in your candles.

And voila! Your DIY Mason Jar Citronella candles are ready! Just light them up, and enjoy a serene, bug-free outdoor evening!

In Conclusion

Making your own Citronella candles is a fun, practical, and rewarding project. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening with a book or hosting a summer get-together, these candles will ensure you’re not bothered by insects while adding a touch of charm and warmth to your surroundings. Here’s to making the most of our summer nights, bug-free and beautifully lit!