Soy Candle Making Sensory Craft

Soy wax flakes

Pre-tabbed candle wicks

Heat-safe jars or tins

Essential oils (lavender, vanilla, or citrus)

Candle dye or crayon shavings

A double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

A pencil, hot glue gun, and thermometer

Measure soy wax flakes and melt in a double boiler (adult supervises the heat).

Prepare jars: glue a wick tab to the bottom center of each jar.

When wax reaches about 130F, add essential oil and color. Stir slowly.

Cool slightly to 120F, then pour carefully into jars.

Wrap the wick around a pencil resting on the jar rim to keep it centered.

Let cool completely — at least 4 hours, overnight is best.

Trim the wick to 1/4 inch and light it (with adult supervision).

Soy wax is safer and cleaner than paraffin. It burns longer and throws scent well.

The entire process is sensory-rich: the smooth texture of melted wax, the scent of essential oils, the visual of color blending.

Don't add fragrance to wax that's too hot — it evaporates the scent. 130F is the sweet spot.

Layer different colored wax for a striped effect — pour one layer, let it set, then pour the next.

These make wonderful handmade gifts. Kids take genuine pride in creating something functional and beautiful.