Candles are commonly used for decorative purposes. Candles have transformed from the original white stick, to any array of colored, scented and decorative varieties. People also have the choice of purchasing round, tapered and votive candles. They are available in wide varieties in the market. However, people may also choose to make candles.

Ingredients needed to make a candle are paraffin or wax. These are also available with additives such as dye, fragrance oils, shells, beads, etc. A metal mold is used to give shape to the candle. A wick and wick screw are also needed to make a candle.

It is important to create a work area, as melted wax can tend to be messy if spilled. Covering the workspace with newspaper is helpful. While melting the wax or paraffin, it is important to have access to a fire extinguisher, in case of an emergency. It is preferable to use an electrical heating device to melt wax as this prevents accidents. In other cases a double boiler should be used. Once the wax melts temperature rises sharply.

A thermometer should be used to check melted wax temperatures. It should never be left unattended since it may reach its flash point, which is 300o F. The mould should be dry and ready to use. If it is being re-used people should clean remnants of old candles. The wick screw should be fixed with the wick and kept ready to use. People may even purchase ready wick screw preparations. Once the melted wax is at a steady 250 o it is ready to be poured into the mold.

Once the wax is poured in the mould it solidifies after some time. It is advisable not to be curious and touch the visible end to check if it has dried. Even though it may not burn the skin but such an action is most certain to leave finger impressions. Once this process is complete, the new candle is ready for use.