How To Put Surprises In Candles?

How to Put Surprises in Candles: A Step-by-Step Guide

Surprise candles are a delightful way to add an extra element of excitement to a traditional gift. Whether you're looking to hide jewellery, cash, trinkets, or other small treasures, creating your own surprise candle can be a fun and rewarding project. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making your very own surprise candles, from selecting the right materials to safely embedding your chosen surprises.

Materials You'll Need

Before you start, gather the necessary materials:

• Candle wax: Soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax are common choices.

• Candle wicks: Make sure they are the correct size for your candle containers.

• Containers: Jars, tins, or moulds to hold your candles.

• Fragrance oils: Optional, but they add a pleasant scent to your candles.

• Dye: Optional, for adding colour to your candles.

• Surprises: Jewelry, cash, crystals, small trinkets, etc.

• Double boiler: For melting the wax.

• Thermometer: To monitor the temperature of the wax.

• Glue dots or hot glue gun: To secure the wick.

• Stirring utensil: A wooden stick or spoon.

• Scissors: To trim the wick.
  

Step 1: Choose Your Surprise

Select the item you want to hide inside the candle. Popular choices include:

• Jewellery: Rings, necklaces, or bracelets.

• Cash: Rolled-up bills placed in a small, heat-resistant container.

• Crystals: Small, polished stones or gems.

• Trinkets: Tiny figurines or charms.

Ensure that the surprise is small enough to fit inside the candle container and is made of materials that can withstand heat without melting or becoming damaged.

Step 2: Prepare the Container and Wick

1. Attach the Wick: Use a glue dot or a small dab of hot glue to secure the wick to the bottom centre of your container. This will keep the wick in place as you pour the wax.

2. Stabilize the Wick: Once the wick is secured, use a wick holder or a chopstick to keep it centred and upright. You can balance the wick holder or chopstick across the top of the container.
   

Step 3: Melt the Wax

1. Set Up the Double Boiler: Fill the bottom pot of your double boiler with water and place it on the stove. Bring the water to a simmer.

2. Melt the Wax: Place the wax in the top pot of the double boiler. Stir occasionally as it melts to ensure even heating.

3. Monitor the Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep an eye on the wax temperature. Most waxes melt between 120°F and 180°F. Avoid overheating the wax.
   

Step 4: Add Fragrance and Color (Optional)

1. Add Fragrance Oil: Once the wax is fully melted, remove it from the heat. If you want to add a scent, stir in the fragrance oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 1 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax).

2. Add Dye: If you want to colour your candle, add dye to the melted wax and stir until fully blended.
   

Step 5: Pour the Wax and Embed the Surprise

1. Initial Pour: Carefully pour a small amount of melted wax into the container, enough to cover the bottom. Allow this layer to cool and harden slightly. This creates a base for the surprise.

2. Place the Surprise: Once the base layer is firm, place your chosen surprise in the container. Ensure it is centred and not touching the sides.

3. Final Pour: Pour the remaining melted wax into the container, covering the surprise completely. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container to avoid overflow.
   

Step 6: Cool and Set

Allow the candle to cool and harden completely. This can take several hours, depending on the size of the container and the type of wax used. For best results, let the candle sit undisturbed in a cool, dry place.

Step 7: Trim the Wick

Once the candle is fully hardened, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the wax. This will ensure a clean, even burn when the candle is lit.

Step 8: Decorate and Package

If desired, decorate the outside of the candle container with labels, ribbons, or other embellishments. This adds a personal touch and makes your surprise candle even more special.

Tips for Success

• Test Small Batches: If you're new to candle-making, start with small batches to perfect your technique before making larger quantities.

• Use Heat-Resistant Containers: Ensure that any container you use for the surprise is heat-resistant and non-flammable.

• Monitor the Burn Time: Inform the recipient that the surprise is embedded within the candle and may take several hours of burning to be revealed. This adds to the anticipation and excitement.
  

Safety Considerations

• Avoid Flammable Materials: Ensure that the surprise is made of materials that won't catch fire or release harmful fumes when exposed to heat.

• Secure the Wick: A properly secured wick ensures a safe and even burn, preventing the flame from shifting and potentially causing uneven melting or container damage.

• Heat-Resistant Surprises: Choose surprises that can withstand the heat of the melted wax without melting or warping.
  

Conclusion

Creating a surprise gift candle is a fun and rewarding project that adds a touch of magic to any gift. By following these steps and paying attention to safety and quality, you can craft beautiful candles that delight and surprise your friends and loved ones. Whether for a special occasion or just because a handmade surprise candle is a thoughtful and memorable gift that brings joy with every burn. Embrace your creativity and happy candle-making!