Scented Chunk Candles

Making Scented Chunk Candles

The types of candles that can be made are almost infinite and dependent on the candle maker’s imagination. Many of today’s candles were also very popular years ago. Two good examples would be chunk candles and botanical candles. We will focus on making chunk candles in this newsletter and we will discuss botanical candles in the next issue.

The making of scented chunk candles is relatively easy and allows the candle maker to use excess wax from other production runs in a very productive manner.

To start, pour excess wax from previous scented chunk candles or new wax of different colors into a bakers tray or cookie sheet. Prior to letting the wax completely harden, take a knife and cut the sheet into square or other unique shapes. These chunks can be scented or unscented. (For a uniquely scented chunk candles try using different types of scents in these candles.) Using different scents will allow these candles to “emit” different smells during the burning cycle.

When the chunks are completely hard remove them from the sheets and place in any type of pillar mold. Common mold sizes would include 3 x 6-1/2, 3 x 9-1/2 and 4 x 4-1/2. Once the chunks have been placed in the mold, take a pillar wax (scented or unscented) and pour over the chunks. When the candle is completely set up, remove the pillar from the mold.

For variations in the basic scented chunk candles, try some of the following variations:

1. Once the chunks are placed in the mold, pour your pillar wax at a higher temperature, which will cause the chunks to streak and create a unique look.
2. Try using different types of molds such as octagons, squares and other unusual shapes.
3. Try making chunk candles in a jar. For best results make the chunks out of wax with a lower melt point wax.

What makes the scented chunk candles so unique is the endless possibilities that can be made with the same basic concept. The making of the chunks also make for a great use of your scrap wax.