How to Create Colorful Candles

Step 1

String a wick through the hole of a metal pillar candle mold, leaving wick to spare on each end, about an inch at the hole and a few inches at the other end. Tightly cover the hole on the outside of the mold with duct tape so hot wax can’t leak out.

Step 2

Place the mold, hole side down, in a box filledd with sand, pebbles, soil, or another heat-safe material that will let you tilt the mold as you pour in wax.

Step 3

For each color, heat 2 cups wax in a microwave-safe handled container, like a measuring cup, until melted, about a minute. Then add color, following the dye’s package instructions.

Step 4

Tilt the mold and pour in a layer of colored wax. Let that layer set for about 10 minutes before pouring another layer. As the wax sets, make sure to hold the wick close to the center.

Step 5

Repeat for each layer. For the last one, take the mold out of the box and place it on a flat surface so you can fill it with wax and it will be level at the top.

Step 6

Let cool overnight. Remove the duct tape and pull the mold off the candle. Trim the excess wick at each end, leaving enough to light.