The principle for these candles is the same as any dipped candle, except that instead of a simple wick serving as the core, we're adding a stick or cane and brown paper. The stick allows you to place the torch in the ground or a flower pot and gives the candle rigidity. It also (along with the brown paper) makes for a big flame, that will stand up to most breezes.
I've seen these candle torches in a variety of sizes, from 8" mini-torches that are good for table tops, to jumbo torches that were over 2 feet! The ones I'm making are about 18" high and are useable both in the ground or in a flower pot arrangement.
For this project you'll need:
- Stick to match the size torch you want - I'm using an 18" wooden dowel, 3/8" in diameter.
- Strips of brown paper, approximately 1" wide
- Enough wax to make your torches (I used about 4 lbs.) - I used a general-purpose basic paraffin wax - though most any non-container blend (pillar, votive, etc.) wax will do. You can even use your recycled scrap wax.
- Medium sized raw wick - I'm using a #1 square braid wick - you can use any wick that's appropriate for a 1-2" pillar candle.
- Dipping can - (I'll talk more about this later)
- Citronella or other mosquito-repelling essential oil blend
- Wax dye for the overdip, if desired
- Basic understanding of candlemaking safety
