How To Make Bubble Candles 8 Steps

Bubble candles have become one of the most popular home decor trends, combining playful aesthetics with functional lighting. These uniquely shaped candles feature spherical bubbles that create a modern, artistic look. Making your own bubble candles allows you to customize colors, scents, and sizes while saving money compared to store-bought versions. This guide will walk you through creating professional-quality bubble candles in just 8 straightforward steps.

Tools and Materials Needed

Preparation: Setting Up Your Workspace

Before diving into candle making, prepare your workspace properly. This preparation will ensure safety and efficiency throughout the process.

1. Choose a flat, heat-resistant surface that you don’t mind getting wax on (or cover with newspaper)
2. Keep all materials within reach but away from heat sources
3. Have a fire extinguisher nearby as a safety precaution
4. Wear clothes you don’t mind potentially getting wax on
5. Prepare a cooling area where your candles can set undisturbed

Step 1: Prepare Your Bubble Candle Molds

The foundation of a perfect bubble candle starts with properly prepared molds.

1. Clean your silicone bubble molds thoroughly to remove any dust or residue
2. If using new molds, wash with mild soap and water, then dry completely
3. Place the wick sticker at the center bottom of each bubble cavity
4. Thread your pre-tabbed wick through the wick centering device (bow tie wick bar)
5. Attach the metal tab of the wick firmly to the wick sticker
6. Position the centering device across the top of the mold to hold the wick straight and centered

Wick Selection Tips

For bubble candles, wick size matters significantly:
– For small bubble sections (1-2 inches diameter): CD-8 to CD-10 wicks
– For medium bubble sections (2-3 inches diameter): CD-12 to CD-14 wicks
– For large bubble sections (3+ inches diameter): CD-16 or larger wicks

Step 2: Measure and Melt the Wax

Proper wax melting ensures a smooth, professional-looking candle.

1. Calculate the amount of wax needed by filling your mold with water, then pouring into a measuring cup to determine volume
2. Add 20% more wax than your measurement to account for shrinkage (approximately 1oz of wax per 1.2oz water volume)
3. Place wax in your double boiler or melting pot
4. Heat the wax slowly to 185°F (85°C) for soy wax or 190-200°F (88-93°C) for paraffin wax
5. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting
6. Monitor temperature with your thermometer to prevent overheating

Wax Type Considerations

– Soy wax: Creates a matte finish, burns longer, easier to clean up
– Paraffin wax: Creates a glossier finish, stronger scent throw, more vibrant colors
– Beeswax: Natural option, honey scent, golden color, higher melting point

Estimated time for melting: 15-20 minutes depending on quantity and heat source

Step 3: Add Color to Your Bubble Candles

The right coloring technique creates vibrant, consistent bubble candles.

1. Once wax is fully melted, reduce heat to low
2. Add candle dye blocks or chips according to manufacturer’s instructions (typically 1 chip per pound of wax for medium color intensity)
3. Stir thoroughly for at least 2 minutes to distribute color evenly
4. Test color by placing a drop on a white paper towel or spoon and allowing it to cool
5. Add more dye if a deeper color is desired

Color Blending Tips

– For pastel colors: Use minimal dye (½ chip per pound)
– For vibrant colors: Use more dye (2-3 chips per pound)
– For custom colors: Mix different dye colors in small amounts until desired shade is achieved
– Remember that colors appear darker in liquid form than when solidified

Step 4: Add Fragrance (Optional)

Adding scent transforms your bubble candles into aromatic home decor.

1. Allow wax to cool to 175°F (80°C) for soy wax or 185°F (85°C) for paraffin wax
2. Add fragrance oil at a ratio of 1oz per pound of wax (approximately 6-10% fragrance load)
3. Stir continuously for 2 minutes to thoroughly incorporate the fragrance
4. Avoid adding too much fragrance as it can prevent proper curing and affect burn quality

Popular Fragrance Combinations for Bubble Candles

– Fresh: Cucumber + mint + green tea
– Cozy: Vanilla + cinnamon + clove
– Energizing: Citrus + ginger + bergamot
– Relaxing: Lavender + chamomile + sandalwood

Step 5: Pour the Wax into Molds

Proper pouring technique is crucial for bubble candle formation.

1. Allow wax to cool to the proper pouring temperature: 135-145°F (57-63°C) for soy wax or 160-170°F (71-77°C) for paraffin wax
2. Pour the wax slowly into each mold cavity, starting at the center near the wick
3. Fill to about ¼ inch from the top of the mold
4. If making multi-bubble candles, ensure each bubble section is filled evenly
5. Tap the mold gently on your work surface to release air bubbles
6. Check that wicks remain centered during pouring

Temperature Considerations

– Too hot: Wax may shrink excessively or develop sinkholes
– Too cold: Wax may set too quickly, creating uneven surfaces or visible pour lines
– Ideal: Pour at manufacturer’s recommended temperature for your specific wax type

Estimated pouring time: 5-10 minutes depending on number of molds

Step 6: Let the Candles Cool and Set

Patience during cooling results in perfectly formed bubble candles.

1. Place filled molds in a draft-free area at room temperature (65-75°F/18-24°C is ideal)
2. Allow candles to cool completely for at least 4-6 hours (overnight is best)
3. Avoid moving or disturbing the molds during this time
4. If sinkholes appear as the wax cools, you can top them off with additional melted wax at the same temperature
5. Resist the urge to speed cooling by refrigerating, as this can cause cracking

Cooling Environment Tips

– Consistent temperature: Prevents uneven cooling and surface imperfections
– Humidity control: Excessive humidity can affect setting and appearance
– Level surface: Ensures even wax distribution in molds

Estimated cooling time: 4-24 hours depending on size and environmental conditions

Step 7: Remove Candles from Molds

Proper removal technique preserves the unique bubble shape.

1. Ensure candles are completely cooled and solidified
2. Gently pull the silicone mold away from the edges of the candle
3. For multi-bubble candles, carefully release each bubble section individually
4. Turn the mold upside down and gently press from the bottom to release the candle
5. If the candle resists, place in freezer for 15-20 minutes to contract the wax slightly, then try again
6. Once removed, allow candles to come to room temperature before trimming wicks

Removal Troubleshooting

– Stuck candles: Apply gentle pressure around all sides before attempting removal
– Broken bubbles: If a section breaks, you can repair minor damage with a heat gun on low setting
– Stubborn release: Never force removal as this can damage both candle and mold

Step 8: Finishing Touches

These final steps give your bubble candles a professional appearance.

1. Trim wicks to ¼ inch length using sharp scissors
2. If surface has any imperfections, use a heat gun on low setting held 6-8 inches away to gently smooth the surface
3. For a glossier finish, you can apply a thin layer of candle sealing spray (optional)
4. If desired, decorate with dried flowers, gold leaf, or other embellishments
5. Allow newly finished candles to cure for 24-48 hours before burning for optimal scent throw and burn performance

Creative Presentation Ideas

– Group multiple bubble candles of varying sizes for a modern display
– Place on mirrored or metallic trays to enhance visual impact
– Pair with complementary colored candle holders or stands
– Consider packaging in clear gift boxes with matching ribbon for gifts

Troubleshooting Common Bubble Candle Issues

Tips for Burning Your Bubble Candles

To enjoy your handmade bubble candles to their fullest:

1. Always trim the wick to ¼ inch before each burn
2. Allow the first burn to create a full melt pool that reaches the edges of the candle
3. Never burn for more than 4 hours at a time
4. Keep away from drafts, which can cause uneven burning
5. Place on heat-resistant surfaces to protect furniture
6. Never leave burning candles unattended

Variations and Creative Ideas

Once you’ve mastered the basic bubble candle technique, try these creative variations:

1. Layered bubble candles: Pour different colored wax in layers, allowing each to partially set before adding the next
2. Embedded objects: Add dried flowers, coffee beans, or cinnamon sticks between layers
3. Ombré effect: Gradually add more dye as you pour to create a color gradient
4. Marbled bubble candles: Swirl multiple colors together before they set
5. Textured surfaces: Lightly spray water on partially set wax to create interesting textures

Making bubble candles at home combines creativity with practical skills, resulting in beautiful decorative items or personalized gifts. By following these 8 steps and paying attention to temperature, timing, and technique, you’ll create professional-quality bubble candles that rival expensive store-bought versions. The process takes approximately 5-6 hours total (including cooling time), but the results are well worth the effort. With practice, you’ll develop your own signature style of bubble candles that reflect your personal aesthetic.