Learn how to turn stoneware mugs into soy candles. This easy DIY will show you how to turn those stoneware mugs, whether vintage or new, that you’ve been holding onto but had no idea what to do with into one-of-a-kind candles.
Besides soap making, candles have got to be hands-down my next favorite thing to do. I’m all about making things that are simple, easy to create, don’t need a lot of supplies, and don’t take up too much of my time. However, they must also be economical and good enough to be turned into gifts if the need arose.
With candles and also soaps, the possibilities are endless. You can put them in gift baskets and gift them for Mother’s Day, holidays, birthdays, and even for your backyard oasis to keep the bugs away. One of my favorites that I enjoy making is citronella for my backyard, and I’ll have to share that with you one day, but the concept is generally the same.
I happened to pick up these stoneware mugs by Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia at Target and originally was going to use them for hot chocolate, but they weren’t big enough. So I thought, why not turn them into candles? You can use old mugs that you have laying around, or find them at a local thrift store or even at TJ Maxx. Amazon also has a great selection, but your best bet for lower prices would be at a thrift shop. You can also use mason jars if you have that lying around as well.
It’s up to you as to what fragrance you want to use. Since I already had a selection of fragrance oils that I purchased from Amazon, I used those. I wanted a fun-scented candle (bubblegum); however, for the holidays, such as Christmas, there are winter essential oils such as mistletoe, candy cane, or even cranberry scented oils that are perfect. If you’re planning on making candles for your kitchen, I personally prefer food-scented oils. It really depends on the season or what you’re looking for.
Here’s what you’ll need to make to your candles.
SUPPLIES
3 Cups Soy Wax Flakes
Soy Wicks (you can also use wood wicks, but finding one that works well can be hit or miss)
Stoneware mug
Large Pyrex cup
Hot glue
Chopstick (pencils works great too)
DIRECTIONS
Begin by gluing your wick to the center of your mug. Hold in place firmly until the glue sets. To keep your wick centered, used a chopstick to keep your wick steady (shown in the photo below).
You can use a candle wax melting pot over a double boiler to melt your soy wax, but to eliminate that added cost and to make it more cost-effective, you can also use your microwave. When melting in microwave, use your pyrex cup and melt in 30-second intervals, stirring until it’s completely melted.
Add your colorant while your wax is still hot. For candles, a wax colorant is recommended over liquid or mica.
Allow your melted wax to cool for about 5-10 minutes before adding your fragrance oil.
Stir in 20 drops of your fragrance oil into melted wax then pour into your mug.
Allow your candles to set for a few hours, preferably overnight.
Trim your wick to ¼ inch before lighting.
Always use caution when burning candles and trim wick if needed.
I really love how these turned out and can’t wait to make a few more. Consider making these stoneware mug candles for family and friends and adding them to gift baskets.
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