Make Terrazzo Candles: Beautiful Home Decor In A Few Simple Steps

Terrazzo candles bring a touch of modern elegance to any space with their speckled, colorful patterns reminiscent of Italian terrazzo flooring. These decorative candles combine the warm glow of candlelight with artistic design elements that make them perfect both as home décor and thoughtful gifts. In this article, I’ll walk you through the process of creating your own terrazzo candles using different techniques and materials. With just a few hours of crafting time, you’ll have unique pieces that add character to your home or make impressive handmade presents.

What Are Terrazzo Candles?

Terrazzo candles feature the distinctive speckled pattern of terrazzo—a composite material traditionally made from chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass set in concrete or resin. In candle form, this aesthetic is recreated using various materials like colored wax chips, crayon pieces, or concrete flecks embedded in a base material. The result is a visually striking candle with a contemporary, artistic appearance that doubles as a decorative object even when not lit.

Materials and Tools Needed

Method 1: DIY Terrazzo Crayon Candles

This method uses crayon pieces to create a colorful terrazzo effect in wax candles—perfect for teens, Halloween decorations, or any seasonal décor.

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials (15 minutes)

1. Remove paper wrappers from crayons of your chosen colors (orange, black, and white work well for Halloween).
2. Break or cut crayons into small pieces about 1/4 inch in size.
3. Set up your double boiler by placing a heat-safe container inside a pot with about 2 inches of water.
4. Prepare your candle containers by securing wicks to the center of each container. You can use a dot of hot glue to hold the metal base in place.
5. Use wick centering devices or wrap the excess wick around a pencil laid across the top of the container to keep it straight.

Step 2: Melt Your Base Wax (20-30 minutes)

1. Place your main wax (soy or paraffin works best) in the double boiler.
2. Heat on medium-low until completely melted, stirring occasionally.
3. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer—ideal pouring temperature is typically between 125-145°F (52-63°C) for soy wax.
4. Add fragrance oil if desired (about 1 oz per pound of wax) when the wax reaches 185°F (85°C).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to the appropriate pouring temperature.

Step 3: Create Terrazzo Effect (10 minutes)

1. When your base wax has cooled to the proper pouring temperature, add about 3/4 of your crayon pieces to the melted wax.
2. Stir gently just enough to distribute the pieces but not melt them completely.
3. For a more authentic terrazzo look, aim for irregular distribution of the colored pieces.

Step 4: Pour Your Candles (5 minutes)

1. Carefully pour the wax mixture into your prepared containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
2. Sprinkle the remaining crayon pieces on top for added visual interest.
3. Adjust your wicks to ensure they remain centered as the wax begins to set.

Step 5: Allow to Cool and Cure (24 hours)

1. Let your candles cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours.
2. For best results, allow them to cure for 24-48 hours before burning.
3. Trim wicks to 1/4 inch before the first use.

Method 2: Terrazzo Stone Candle Jars

This method creates stunning terrazzo-style stone jars using hydrostone that can hold candles or be used as decorative containers.

Step 1: Prepare Your Mold (20 minutes)

1. Select a container to use as your outer mold—this could be a plastic cup or container slightly larger than your desired final jar size.
2. Create an inner mold by selecting a smaller container that will create the hollow center of your jar. Glass jars or small plastic containers work well.
3. Apply a releasing agent (like petroleum jelly or cooking spray) to both your inner and outer molds to ensure easy removal later.
4. Center the smaller container inside the larger one, creating the space where you’ll pour your hydrostone mixture.

Step 2: Create Colored Terrazzo Pieces (30 minutes)

1. Mix small batches of hydrostone with different colored pigments in separate containers.
2. Pour these colored mixtures onto a flat surface lined with parchment paper or silicone mat.
3. Allow to dry completely (about 24 hours).
4. Once dry, break the colored hydrostone into small chips of varying sizes to create your terrazzo pieces.

Step 3: Mix Your Base Hydrostone (15 minutes)

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix your main batch of hydrostone (typically a 3:1 ratio of powder to water).
2. Stir thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency without lumps.
3. Work quickly as hydrostone begins to set within 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Create Your Terrazzo Jar (20 minutes)

1. Add your colored terrazzo pieces to the base hydrostone mixture, stirring gently to distribute them evenly.
2. Pour the mixture into the space between your inner and outer molds.
3. Tap the mold gently on a flat surface to remove air bubbles.
4. Allow the hydrostone to set for at least 1 hour before proceeding.

Step 5: Unmold and Finish (30 minutes)

1. Once the hydrostone has hardened, carefully remove both the inner and outer molds.
2. Sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper.
3. Allow your terrazzo jar to cure completely for 24-48 hours before using.
4. Once cured, you can use the jar to hold a candle by adding wax and a wick, or use it as a decorative container.

Method 3: DIY Terrazzo Concrete Candle Holders

This method creates beautiful terrazzo-style candle holders using concrete and colored concrete flecks.

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials (15 minutes)

1. Mix small batches of concrete with different colored pigments.
2. Allow these colored batches to partially set until they’re firm but not completely hardened.
3. Break these colored concrete pieces into small chips for your terrazzo effect.
4. Prepare your molds by applying a releasing agent.

Step 2: Mix Your Base Concrete (15 minutes)

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix your main batch of concrete.
2. Aim for a pourable but not too runny consistency.

Step 3: Create Your Terrazzo Candle Holders (30 minutes)

1. Pour a small amount of your base concrete into the bottom of your mold.
2. Add some of your colored concrete flecks.
3. Continue alternating layers of base concrete and colored flecks until your mold is filled.
4. For a tea light holder, press a tea light or appropriately sized object into the center to create a space for the candle.
5. Tap the mold gently to remove air bubbles.

Step 4: Allow to Cure (48 hours)

1. Let your concrete candle holders set for at least 24 hours before removing from the molds.
2. Allow them to cure for an additional 24 hours before using.
3. Sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper.
4. Apply a concrete sealer if desired for a more polished finish and to protect the surface.

Plantable Terrazzo Candles

For an eco-friendly twist, consider making plantable terrazzo candles that can be repurposed once the candle is finished.

Creating Plantable Terrazzo Candles (Additional 15 minutes)

1. Follow any of the methods above to create your terrazzo candle.
2. Before the wax fully sets, add a small packet of herb or flower seeds to the bottom of the container.
3. Include instructions with your candle explaining that once the candle is finished burning, the container can be used as a planter.
4. This makes for an especially thoughtful gift that continues to give even after the candle is gone.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Creative Variations and Ideas

1. Seasonal Colors: Adapt your terrazzo colors to match holidays or seasons—pastels for spring, bright colors for summer, oranges and browns for fall, or reds and greens for winter holidays.

2. Metallic Accents: Add gold, silver, or copper leaf flakes to your terrazzo mix for a touch of glamour.

3. Layered Terrazzo: Create distinct layers of different colored terrazzo effects by allowing each layer to partially set before adding the next.

4. Embedded Objects: Add small shells, dried flowers, or other heat-resistant decorative elements to your terrazzo mix for unique personalization.

5. Terrazzo Trays: Apply the same techniques to create matching terrazzo trays that complement your candles for a coordinated décor set.

Safety Tips

1. Always work in a well-ventilated area when melting wax or working with concrete.
2. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when working with open flames or hot wax.
3. Never leave melting wax unattended.
4. Use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot materials.
5. Keep your work area clear of flammable materials.
6. When burning your finished candles, always place them on heat-resistant surfaces and never leave burning candles unattended.

Final Thoughts

Making terrazzo candles is a rewarding craft project that combines functionality with artistic expression. Whether you choose the crayon method for vibrant colors, hydrostone for elegant stone-like vessels, or concrete for sturdy candle holders, the terrazzo technique allows for endless customization to match your personal style or home décor.

These handmade candles make thoughtful gifts that show care and creativity, or they can elevate your own home’s ambiance with their unique patterns and warm glow. The versatility of terrazzo designs means you can create pieces that work for any season or occasion, from everyday décor to special holiday celebrations.

With the detailed instructions provided in this guide, you’re well-equipped to start creating your own beautiful terrazzo candles. Remember that practice makes perfect, and each candle you make will help you refine your technique and develop your own signature style. Happy crafting!