Soy candles are my favorite way to warm up the ambience of my home. They’re eco-friendly and give each room a golden cast. Besides, in addition to being made from nontoxic, organic ingredients, they're extra-green because you can flip off the electric lights and save some energy.

The only problem: I’ve always been perplexed by the steep price tags that come attached to them. Considering how often I burn them, my affinity can get a bit pricy.

Solution: I'm back with another how-to for you! I started making my own soy candles. Follow my guide and you’ll find that it’s well-worth the effort.

Purchase soy wax from a candle supplier, such as Candle Scents and Supplies.

Use a double boiler to melt your soy wax. Fill the larger pot with water, put your soy wax in the smaller pot and place them onto the burner until the wax melts.

If you want to add essential fragrance oil, let the wax cool to approximately 120 degrees. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water, not the wax itself. For each pound of wax that you use, you should add one ounce of fragrance oil.

Choose a container. To maintain the eco-friendly nature of this project, use an empty glass jar from your kitchen. Dip the end of the wick into the wax, plant it firmly against the bottom of the jar and hold it steady until the wax dries and the wick is secured.

Stir the remaining wax thoroughly, and pour it into the container, holding the wick firmly in the center. Allow the wax to completely dry before trimming your wick and burning your homemade soy candle. Enjoy!

Image: D3 San Francisco

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