I’m the kind of person that hates to throw out items that can be used for crafting. Most of the time, I collect stuff and forget about it before ever actually using it. My random plastic bag full of broken candle pieces was one of those unused collections until, dun dun dunnnnnn—Today I made recycled candles!

I’ve been saving random tidbits of leftover pillar candles for months and finally had enough pieces to make a yummy vanilla, fir, and beeswax blend. Hell-bent on doing something crafty today, I was like “You know what? I’m gonna go to Michael’s, get some candle wick, and make some damned candles.” .. So that’s what I did.

I recommend thrifting cool tin containers, using wide-mouth mason jars, or reusing glass candle votive holders for making your candles in. I had some neat vintage tins that my stepmom had thrifted for me that I’ve been thinking would make cool candle containers AND some glass jar thingys that were store-bought with candles in them (the candles that came in them are long gone, but I’ve been saving the jars because I am a hoarder) that I used for this project.

Making recycled candles is SUPER easy considering all you need is to collect some junk, melt some wax, and pour. Best of all, you don’t have to feel guilty about tossing out that tiny bit of candle wax that’s always left at the bottom once the wick dies anymore because now you are a master of recycling, nay, upcycling that candle wax. Go you.

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Supplies:
assorted pieces of used candles (can mix and match scents)
small metal pot
candle wick (can purchase at craft stores, online, or you can diy)
tape
scissors
glass or metal containers for pouring candles into

Directions:
Break up your chunks of used candle wax into small pieces and place into a pot. Heat on low and stir regularly until all candle pieces are completely melted down. Pro Tip: Use a spoon to fish out any leftover wick or metal pieces. Meanwhile, make sure that the containers you are going to pour the wax into are clean and will be safe for candle burning. Using tape, make an X across the top of the jar (or whatever you’re using). Poke a small hole in the middle of the X and thread a piece of wick through it. Wick should be cut long enough to curl slightly along the bottom of the container and long enough to stick up above the candle 1/2 inch or so. Once you have your containers prepped, carefully pour the melted wax into the containers. Set aside and allow to cool completely. Remove tape, trim wick, and burnnn baby, burn!