The only downside to being a candle aficionado is the litany of jars left behind. We often buy more and more without contemplating the mounds of waste we produce. As I tossed yet another empty candle jar the other day, it occured to me there has to be a better way. As it turns out, there’s a much better way to do candles.

DIY CANDLE KITS

To make your candle, the first step is to cut open the bag of wax and pop it in the microwave. While the wax is melting, adhere the wicks to your container. Then pour the melted wax into the prepared container and allow it to solidify. It’s that simple.

I discovered two candle kits that piqued my interest, so I test drove both.

Siblings Candle Kit

The Siblings candle kit is a 100% natural blend of coconut and soy wax. It’s wax and fragrance is free of parabens, paraffin and phthalates. It comes in a 10 oz. bag with lead-free cotton wicks and a wooden wick holder. The 10 oz. bag costs between $24-28. My favorite Siblings candle kit scent is Cardamom Sandalwood Vanilla. 

Etsy Candle Kit

The Etsy candle kits are soy wax. They come in two sizes:  8 oz. and 16 oz. They also include cotton wicks, but no wick holder. The large bag costs $16. The small bag costs $8. My favorite Etsy candle kit scent is Marshmallow Fireside. 

The candles I made from each bag were slow-burning and lasted for hours and hours. I haven’t burned them all and I’m already chomping at the bit to order more scents. I already tossed my old candle jars, so I repurposed two Pottery Barn votive holders. I also found some interesting handmade pottery candle holders on Etsy. I’ll most likely grab one. It’s too unique to pass up.

“It’s better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”

—Chinese Proverb

Discover a scent that lights your fire. Find some interesting containers that warm your soul. Flex those creative muscles and let your imagination run wild. And while you enjoy the fruits of your labor, pat your sustainable self on the back for being less wasteful. Look at you go; you’re so damn lit. —xo

You might also like How to Smudge with Sage and Palo Santo.

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