How to Make Your Own Scented Candles (That Actually Smell Strong!)

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So you’ve tried those DIY candle recipes floating around the internet, only to end up with a cute candle that… doesn’t smell like anything unless your nose is inches away from it? Yeah, same here. But here’s the good news: making strong-smelling, long-lasting scented candles at home isn’t just possible — it’s actually fun, therapeutic, and way more affordable than buying $25 candles every month.

In this blog, you’ll learn how to make your own candles from scratch, choose the right wax, pick the strongest fragrance oils, and avoid common mistakes so your whole room smells amazing (not just the surface of the wax). Oh, and don’t worry — I’ve added Amazon affiliate links for all the must-have supplies so you can grab everything easily.

🕯️ Why Make Your Own Scented Candles?

Before we jump in, here’s why DIY candles are 100% worth your time:

• Custom scents tailored to your mood.
• Way cheaper than luxury candles.
• You control the ingredients (hello, toxin-free living!).
• It’s weirdly satisfying watching wax melt.
• Homemade candles make the cutest gifts ever.

🧺 Candle-Making Supplies You’ll Need

Here’s your candle-making starter pack — shop them directly on Amazon:

1. Wax

The wax is your candle’s base. For strong-scented candles, go with soy wax or a soy-paraffin blend.
✔️ Recommended: Soy Wax Flakes for Candle Making

2. Fragrance Oils

Not all fragrance oils are created equal! Look for ones labeled “highly concentrated” or “for candle making.”
✔️ Recommended: P&J Premium Fragrance Oil Set

3. Wicks

Go for cotton or wood wicks and make sure they’re the right size for your container.
✔️ Recommended: Cotton Candle Wicks with Stickers and Holders

4. Containers

Mason jars, teacups, tins — anything heat-safe works.
✔️ Recommended: Candle Jars with Lids

5. Thermometer

Helps ensure you add fragrance at the perfect temperature.
✔️ Recommended: Candle Making Thermometer

6. Double Boiler or Melting Pot

Don’t burn the wax! Melt it gently.
✔️ Recommended: Candle Pouring Pitcher (Double Boiler)

🔥 Step-by-Step: How to Make Strong-Smelling Scented Candles

✨ Step 1: Prep Your Container

• Stick the wick to the bottom of the jar using a glue dot or hot glue.
• Use a wick holder or chopstick to keep the wick centered and straight.

✨ Step 2: Measure Your Wax

• Fill your container twice with wax flakes to get the right amount (wax shrinks when melted).
• Pour flakes into your pouring pitcher.

✨ Step 3: Melt the Wax

• Set your pitcher in a double boiler setup over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally with a wooden stick.
• When fully melted, check the temperature — you want it around 185°F before adding fragrance.

✨ Step 4: Add Fragrance Oils

This is the secret sauce to making your candle smell strong!

• Add 1 oz of fragrance per 1 lb of wax for a strong scent throw (or up to 10% fragrance load).
• Stir for a full 2 minutes to make sure it’s evenly distributed.

👉 Pro Tip: Want a signature scent? Mix fragrance oils like vanilla + sandalwood or lavender + citrus!

✨ Step 5: Pour the Wax

• Let the wax cool slightly to 135-140°F before pouring (to prevent sinkholes or cracking).
• Carefully pour it into your prepared container.

✨ Step 6: Let It Set

• Let your candle cure for at least 24 hours before lighting.
• For stronger scent, let it cure 3-7 days (yes, patience = better scent throw!).

💡 Pro Tips for Candles That Smell STRONG

1. Use the Right Fragrance Load

Always check how much fragrance your wax can hold. Most soy waxes can handle up to 10%, but check the manufacturer’s guide.

2. Choose a Smaller Room

If you’re testing your scent throw, start in a smaller room like a bathroom or bedroom. Strong scent = ✔️

3. Avoid Overheating

If your wax gets too hot, it’ll burn off the fragrance oil — meaning zero scent. Use your thermometer like a candle guardian angel.

4. Double the Wick for Bigger Containers

If your container is wider than 3 inches, use two wicks for even melting and scent dispersion.

5. Try Wood Wicks for Crackle + Strength

They burn slower, evenly, and sometimes throw scent better.
✔️ Recommended: Wooden Wicks for Candle Making

🌿 Natural Add-Ons to Boost Your Candle Game

Want to make your candles even more aesthetic (and effective)? Try these:

• Dried flowers: Looks gorgeous, but keep them away from the wick.
  ✔️ Dried Flower Candle Decor Kit
• Essential oils: You can mix essential oils with fragrance oil, but don’t use them alone — they aren’t strong enough on their own for hot throw.
• Color blocks or dye: Add a splash of color!
  ✔️ Candle Dye Blocks Set

🎁 Bonus: DIY Candle Gift Ideas!

Turn your candle-making into a side hustle or gifting hobby:

• Holiday gifts: Cinnamon + Vanilla in Christmas tins.
• Self-care sets: Pair your candle with a homemade bath salt jar.
• Custom labels: Print a cute message like “Smells Like Home” or “Good Vibes Only”.

✔️ Recommended: Candle Label Sticker Pack

🧼 How to Clean Up (Without the Mess)

Melted wax is a nightmare on kitchen tools, but here’s the trick:

• While the wax is still warm, wipe everything down with a paper towel.
• Then wash with hot water and dish soap.
• Don’t pour melted wax down the sink (unless you want an emergency plumber visit).

🕯️ Final Thoughts: Make Your Home Smell Like a Spa

Making your own scented candles doesn’t have to be intimidating. Once you get the basics down, it’s totally addictive. You’ll start mixing scents, trying new wicks, and maybe even selling them at a local craft fair.

Whether you’re doing it for yourself, for gifts, or just for a cozy-smelling apartment that feels like a 5-star spa retreat, this is one DIY that keeps giving back. Plus, lighting a candle you made yourself? Total main-character energy.

🔗 Grab Your Candle-Making Kit Now

Want everything in one bundle?
✔️ All-in-One Candle Making Kit (Beginner Friendly)