How To Make Your Own Coconut Candle – Quick GUIDE

Don’t know how to make your own coconut candle? It’s pretty simple but there are a few things you’ll have to know to make it good.

Making your own candles can be a fun and creative therapeutic activity. For some, it can help them save money on something they probably didn’t need to spend on.

In this article, I’ll share more on how you can start making your own coconut candles from home and the items required to make a good candle even as a beginner.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission (at no cost to you) if you sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link!

Related Posts:

What are Coconut Candles?

Coconut candles are candles that are made of coconut wax. This type of wax is derived from hydrogenated coconut oil which is from the coconut fruit or the fruit of a coconut tree.

Coconut candles can be made with 100% pure coconut wax or coconut wax blend. Coconut wax blend can include soy coconut blend, coconut beeswax blend and even coconut paraffin blend.

Why are coconut waxes preferred to begin with? Compared to other kinds of waxes, coconut wax offers a strong scent throw making them perfect to be used for making scented candles. They retain fragrances well and provides a cleaner, longer-lasting burn with minimal soot.

In terms of final look of the product, coconut wax has a creamy texture that gives a luxurious look (compared to soy wax). They’re also a sustainable wax choice that is also biodegradable, and well loved by eco-conscious candle users.

How to Make Your Own Coconut Candle to Sell

Essential Supplies

The amount of supplies required depends on the number of candles you wish to make.

Coconut wax: Look for high-quality, 100% coconut wax for the best results.
Fragrance oils: Choose your favorite scents to personalize your candle. Whether it’s vanilla, coconut, or a tropical blend, a stronger fragrance oil will make a stronger scented candle.
Candle wicks: Select the right size wicks for your containers, thicker ones are meant for larger candles. You may also need a wick holder.
Candle containers: Any heat-resistant container works, from mason jars to decorative tins.
Digital scale: To measure the wax and fragrance oils for exact amount.
Metal spoon: Used to stir the wax and fragrance oils for a balanced blend.
Candle pitcher: Metal jug to hold wax while it melts using double boiling method and for pouring.
Digital thermometer: To monitor temperature of the wax.
Gloves and goggles: Always prioritize safety while crafting your candles. Having gloves and goggles on hand will protect you during the process.

Step-by-Step Guide

Before you start, make sure all your materials are on hand to stay organized.
Melt your wax using a double boiler or a dedicated wax melting pot to heat it gently. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Once your wax has melted, bring it away from heat for it to cool down.
At the right temperature, add your fragrance oils and stir well. Aim for about 6-10% of fragrance oil based on the total weight of the wax to achieve a delightful aroma.
Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared containers. Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion as it cools.
Allow your candles to cool completely at room temperature. For the best scent throw, let them cure for about 14 days before burning.

Read: How Long Do Coconut Wax Candles Need To Cure?

How to Make Your Own Coconut Candle with Essential Oils

You can follow the guideline above and substitute fragrance oils with your preferred essential oils.

While most essential oils can be used for making scented candles, it’s best that you check the manufacturer guidelines of the exact product you’re using to be sure.

Once your wax has melted, remove it from heat and add your chosen essential oils. Aim for about 10% essential oil based on the wax weight for a strong fragrance. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Let your scented candles cure for about 14 days for optimal scent throw.

Read: What is the difference between fragrance oils and essential oils in candle making?

How to Make Your Own Coconut Candle with Coconut Oil

Making a coconut candle with coconut oil is a straightforward process. This addition helps create a smoother texture and can improve the scent throw.

Follow the candle making process listed above and just add coconut oil to the melted wax. If you’re using coconut oil to enhance the candle’s creaminess or burn quality, mix about 5-20% coconut oil into the melted wax.

After combining, stir well and add your desired fragrance oils, ensuring they’re evenly incorporated.

How to Make Your Own Coconut Shell Candle

A coconut shell candle is a coconut candle that is made using coconut shells as the container. Basically, you’ll have to place a wick and pour your wax into a coconut shell.

It is a unique and eco-friendly way to use coconut shells but you’ll have to clean and dry the empty shell, ensuring it’s free of residue. You can cut the shell in half or use it whole, depending on your design preference.

As all coconut shells are different and comes in odd shapes, be sure that the one you’re using is stable and can stand upright when placed on a flat surface before pouring any wax into it.

Start by securing a wick at the bottom of the shell using adhesive or by pouring a small amount of wax first. You must use a wick suitable for the size of the shell to help prevent overheating. Then, carefully pour the melted wax (once it cools) into the shell, making sure the wax surface is levelled when placed on a flat surface.

Just like other candles, you’ll need the candles to cool completely, and trim the wick to about ¼ inch above the surface before use. Be sure to monitor the candle while it burns to avoid any potential cracking from heat.

6 Tips for Making Perfect Coconut Candles

Whether you’re making scented candles or regular coconut candles, testing your products is the only way to know it’s perfect and ready for sales (if you’re planning to).

Here are some tips you should keep in mind as you progress:

Keep your recipes and mark your candles using a standardized candle test sheet/form
Experiment your candles using different ingredients and record their results
Always measure your wax and fragrance carefully
When melting wax, always keep an eye on the wax temperature – if it gets too hot, it may damage the wax; if it’s too cool, it may not melt properly
Add fragrances at the right temperature so it does not dissipate
Wear protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area is crucial for a safe candle-making experience

Bottom Line

Making your own coconut candle is not only a cool activity, it can also be a hobby you share with a loved one. Coconut candles can be made unique to personalize a space and creates a warm ambience at home.

As all products are not the same, it’s best that you test out the ones you have and follow manufacturer’s guideline on how to use them.

Testing products is the way to go!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to make coconut candles at home?

To make coconut candles at home, start by gathering your materials: 100% coconut wax, fragrance oils, candle wicks, and containers (like jars or coconut shells). Melt the coconut wax in a double boiler until fully liquid, then add your chosen fragrance oil, typically around 6-10% of the wax weight. Prepare your container by securing the wick in the center. Carefully pour the melted wax into the container, leaving some space at the top. Allow the candle to cool at room temperature for several hours, then let it cure for about 14 days for the best scent throw. Once cured, your homemade coconut candle is ready to be enjoyed!

How long do coconut candles last?

The lifespan of coconut candles can vary based on their size and the quality of the wax used. On average, a coconut candle can last anywhere from 20 to 50 hours of burn time. Smaller candles typically burn for around 20-30 hours, while larger ones can exceed 50 hours. To maximize their lifespan, it’s essential to trim the wick regularly and avoid burning the candle for extended periods. Following these practices not only extends the life of your coconut candle but also ensures a cleaner and more even burn.

What are coconut candles made of?

Coconut candles are primarily made from 100% coconut wax, which is derived from the meat of coconuts. This natural wax is known for its creamy texture, clean-burning properties, and excellent scent retention. In addition to coconut wax, coconut candles often include fragrance oils to provide delightful scents and essential oils for a more natural aroma. Some candles may also incorporate other materials, such as cotton or wooden wicks, to enhance the burning experience. Overall, coconut candles are a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional paraffin candles.