How To Make Bubble Candles: 8 Steps

Bubble candles have become one of the trendiest home décor items, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. These sculptural candles feature spherical bubbles that create a modern, artistic look. Whether you’re an experienced candle maker looking to expand your repertoire or a beginner seeking a creative project, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of making beautiful bubble candles in just 8 steps.

What You’ll Need

Before beginning your bubble candle project, gather these essential supplies:

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Materials

Begin by setting up a clean, flat workspace. Cover your surface with newspaper or wax paper to catch any spills. Organize all your materials within reach. This preparation is crucial for a smooth candle-making process.

Thread your candle wick through the bow tie wick bar, then through the hole in the bubble mold. Position the mold with the wick-bar side facing up on a paper plate. The wick bar will help keep your wick centered while the wax solidifies.

Pro Tip:

Pre-warm your molds slightly (not hot) to help the wax flow more evenly and prevent air bubbles from forming against the cold surface.

Step 2: Measure and Melt the Wax

Calculate how much wax you’ll need based on your mold size. As a general rule, add about 10% more than your mold volume to account for shrinkage.

Using your double boiler or wax melter, heat the wax to approximately 180°F (82°C). Monitoring the temperature with a thermometer is essential—too hot, and you risk discoloration; too cool, and the wax won’t flow properly into the mold.

Temperature Guidelines:

– Soy wax: 170-180°F (77-82°C)
– Paraffin wax: 180-190°F (82-88°C)

Step 3: Add Color and Fragrance (Optional)

Once your wax reaches the proper temperature, remove it from the heat source. If you’re adding color, now is the time. Add candle dye chips or liquid dye and stir thoroughly until completely incorporated.

For fragrance, wait until the wax cools to about 160°F (71°C) before adding your chosen scent. This temperature preserves the fragrance while ensuring it mixes well. The recommended amount is approximately 1 oz of fragrance oil per pound of wax, but follow your specific oil’s guidelines.

Fragrance Recommendations for Bubble Candles:

– Clean scents: Linen, Cotton, Fresh Air
– Relaxing scents: Lavender, Eucalyptus, Chamomile
– Modern scents: Fig, Teakwood, Amber

Step 4: Pour the First Layer

Allow the wax to cool to around 135-140°F (57-60°C) before pouring. This cooling period is crucial for bubble candles as it helps prevent shrinkage and ensures the bubbles form properly.

Pour the wax into your prepared mold slowly and carefully. Fill only about 1/4 of the mold for this first pour. This initial layer will serve as the base for your bubble formations.

Step 5: Create the Bubble Effect

The distinctive bubble effect requires patience and precision. After your first layer has partially set but is still slightly soft (typically 15-20 minutes), prepare a second batch of wax following the same melting process.

For the bubble effect, you’ll need to:
1. Let this second batch cool slightly more than the first (to about 130°F/54°C)
2. Pour it slowly over the back of a spoon onto the first layer
3. Aim for specific spots where you want bubbles to form
4. Use varying heights for pouring to create different-sized bubbles

Technique Tip:

For more controlled bubbles, you can use a pipette or small spoon to place small amounts of wax in specific locations on your partially set first layer.

Step 6: Complete the Candle

After creating your bubble formations, allow the wax to partially set again (approximately 15-20 minutes). Then prepare your final wax pour to fill the mold completely. This pour should be at a slightly lower temperature (around 125-130°F/52-54°C) to prevent melting your carefully crafted bubbles.

Pour slowly around the edges of the mold rather than directly onto your bubble formations. Fill to just below the top edge of the mold, leaving room for the wick bar.

Step 7: Allow Proper Curing

Patience is key in candle making. Allow your bubble candle to cure completely for at least 24 hours at room temperature. Avoid moving or disturbing the candle during this time.

The curing process allows the wax to fully set and the fragrance (if added) to bind properly with the wax. Some candle makers recommend a longer curing period of 3-7 days for optimal scent throw.

Step 8: Finish and Trim

Once your candle has completely cured, it’s time for the finishing touches:

1. Gently remove the candle from the mold by carefully flexing the silicone
2. Remove the wick bar from the top
3. Trim the wick to approximately 1/4 inch (6mm) above the highest point of your candle
4. Clean any excess wax from the bottom for a flat, stable base

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Final Thoughts

Creating bubble candles is both an art and a science. While these 8 steps provide a solid foundation, don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, scents, and bubble formations to develop your unique style. With practice, you’ll master the technique of creating these trendy decorative candles.

Bubble candles make excellent gifts and can be customized for any occasion. Whether you’re crafting them for personal enjoyment or as thoughtful handmade presents, the process is rewarding and the results are stunning conversation pieces for any home.