nest holiday candle 3 wick

HOW TO CREATE TALLOW CANDELS WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Tallow, a natural byproduct of rendering animal fat, offers a clean, long-lasting burn and a unique aesthetic. By infusing these candles with your favorite essential oils, you can create personalized fragrances that promote relaxation, focus, or simply enhance your ambiance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of creating your own tallow candles, from selecting the right materials to blending essential oils.

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Candles have a unique way of transforming any space into a relaxing haven. Whether I’m preparing a meal, working at my computer, or indulging in a spa day at home, I love lighting a candle to set the mood.

There’s just something about the calming atmosphere candles create – they’re a staple in my home. And even during the seasons when I don’t burn them as often, they’re always handy in case of a power outage.

Living naturally often means letting go of your favorite commercial candles. But with this easy tallow candle recipe with essential oils, you can make your own toxin-free candles at home! It’s simpler than you think.

Ready to create your own chemical-free candles? Keep reading to learn how…

What are tallow candles?

Tallow candles are made from tallow, an age-old ingredient used in candle-making for thousands of years. Unlike modern commercial candles, which can release harmful toxins into the air, tallow candles provide a healthier, natural alternative.

Many people aren’t aware, but commercial candles often contain toxic chemicals that, when burned, release harmful fumes into the air, affecting the health of you and your family (source). To maintain a chemical-free home, I choose to use only pure, high-quality candles made from tallow—one of my favorite ingredients.

Tips in making tallow candles with essential oils

Making candles doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this simple recipe, you can easily create dozens of tallow candles in just a few minutes.

Here are some helpful tips for making the best tallow candles:

  • Scenting your candles: Adding fragrance is totally up to you. If you’re making candles purely for decoration or light, you may want to skip fragrances altogether. If you’d like to add a scent, be sure to use only pure, natural essential oils. I recommend essential oils from trusted brands like Plant Therapy for the best quality.
  • Lubricating your molds: Before pouring in the tallow, remember to lubricate the candle molds with an oil such as coconut or olive oil. This ensures the candles come out smoothly once they’re set.
  • Choosing the right wick: It’s important to choose the right wick for your candles. Look for organic cotton wicks that are coated with beeswax, if possible. Some commercial wicks contain chemicals, so be mindful of what you use. My personal favorite are beeswax-coated organic cotton wicks.
  • Extra candles for gifting: I always make a few extra candles to have on hand as last-minute gifts. They’re perfect for hostess gifts or adding to a holiday gift basket.

Now that you’ve got my top tips, keep reading for step-by-step instructions to make your own tallow candles!

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Making tallow candles with essential oils is one of my favorite activities. Not only do they help create a peaceful environment, but making them is also a fun and easy craft that you can complete in just an afternoon. Here’s how you can make your own:

INGREDIENTS:

  • Grass-fed beef tallow (from leaf fat; soft tallow from trim fat won’t be hard enough)
  • Essential oils (60 drops per cup of tallow)
  • Coconut oil or olive oil (to help with pouring consistency)
  • Wicks (cotton wicks are a great choice)
  • Glass jar or candle mold (for shaping your candles)

GLASS JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Melt the tallow: Gently heat the pure tallow in a saucepan until it turns into a liquid. Be sure to do this on low heat to avoid burning it.
  • Cool the tallow: Allow the melted tallow to cool down a bit, but don’t let it solidify yet.
  • Add essential oils: Once the tallow has cooled slightly, add 60 drops of essential oils per cup of tallow. Stir well to ensure the oils are fully mixed in.
  • Prepare the wick: Secure the wick by placing a clothespin on the top of the glass jar, letting the wick hang down into the center of the jar.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Carefully pour the tallow mixture into the glass jar, making sure not to disturb the wick. Leave some space at the top of the jar.
  • Let it cool: Allow the candle to set and cool at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
  • Trim the wick: Once the candle has fully solidified, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the tallow.
  • Light and enjoy: Your candle is now ready to be lit and enjoyed!

PILLAR JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Lubricate the mold: Use coconut or olive oil to lightly lubricate the inside of the candle mold. This will help you remove the candle once it’s solidified.
  • Thread the wick: String the wick through the center of the candle mold, leaving extra length to trim later. Use a clothespin to hold the wick upright at the top of the mold.
  • Leave space at the tip: When pouring the tallow, leave some space at the tip of the mold to allow room for any expansion.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Pour the liquid tallow into the mold, filling it up to your desired height.
  • Let it set: Allow the candle to cool and solidify at room temperature.
  • Remove the candle: Once the candle is completely solid, carefully remove it from the mold. Trim the wick to your desired length.
  • Light and enjoy: Your pillar candle is ready to be lit and will provide a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

What supplies do you need for candle making?

Surprisingly enough, making your own tallow candles doesn’t require a lot of equipment. When using tallow, you can easily melt it on your stove and start crafting right away. Here’s a quick list of the supplies you’ll need:

SUPPLIES FOR TALLOW CANDLES

  • Glass jars (Make sure they are thick, like mason jars, to prevent the glass from shattering due to heat)
  • Natural wick (Cotton or beeswax-coated wicks are great)
  • Essential oils (Choose your favorite natural oils to scent the candle)
  • Clothespin (To hold the wick in place while the candle sets)
  • Candle mold (If you’re making pillar candles, here’s a great option for that)

MELTING THE TALLOW

The most time-consuming part of the entire candle-making process is melting the tallow. You’ll want to heat it gently on the stove over low heat, as it can take some time to fully melt, depending on the amount you’re using. But don’t worry — once it’s melted, the rest of the process is quick and easy!

Keep reading to learn more about the step-by-step process for melting tallow and making your own candles!

How long does it take to melt tallow?

Tallow is the hard fat found around the organs of animals, and it has countless uses, making it one of my favorite ingredients for a natural living lifestyle. Beyond making candles, you can use tallow in cooking, such as for frying or baking pie crusts, or even for crafting projects like the homemade candles featured in this article.

If you want to make your own tallow, it’s easy to render it using just a crock pot! Rendering tallow at home typically takes several hours, depending on how much you’re melting. For example, it takes about 5-6 hours to fully melt around 4 quarts of tallow. This method is simple and efficient, and it ensures you’re getting pure, high-quality tallow for all your DIY projects.

How much tallow should you melt?

When it comes to rendering tallow, I like to melt as much as I can — or as much as my crock pot will hold. That way, I can make my candles in batches and have some extra tallow for other projects or even gifts.

Tallow is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to use it beyond making candles. Here are a few ideas for utilizing your tallow:

  • Make skincare products: Tallow is fantastic for creating nourishing lotions, balms, and soaps. (Check out this complete guide to tallow skincare for more details.)
  • Season your cast iron skillets: Use tallow to season your cast iron cookware, giving it a non-stick surface and helping it last longer.
  • Cook with it: Tallow has a high smoke point, making it great for frying, sautéing, or baking.
  • Condition leather: Tallow works wonders as a leather conditioner, keeping your leather goods supple and protected.

Honestly, if I had to choose one thing to take with me to a deserted island, tallow would definitely be on the list. It’s just that useful!

What are the best essential oils to add in a tallow candle?

One of the things I truly love about candles is how the right scent can completely transform the atmosphere of a room. Here are a few of my favorite scents for my homemade candles:

  • Lavender: A calming and soothing fragrance, perfect for relaxation.
  • Chamomile: A gentle, floral aroma that creates a peaceful, comforting environment.
  • Frankincense: A rich, resinous scent that adds depth and warmth, ideal for meditation or grounding.
  • Vetiver: Earthy and grounding, this scent is great for creating a serene and tranquil space.
  • Tranquil Synergy: A calming blend of essential oils that promotes relaxation and peace.
  • Relax Synergy: A comforting mix that soothes the mind and body, perfect for unwinding.

It’s also crucial to highlight the importance of using pure essential oils. Personally, I only use Plant Therapy essential oils in my home. They are known for their high-quality oils, sourced from the best plants. When it comes to candles, you want to ensure you’re using oils that are free from toxic chemicals, as many commercial oils can contain harmful substances. By choosing pure oils, you’ll get the best scent possible and avoid introducing any harmful chemicals into your home. This will not only improve the scent of your candles but also make your environment healthier and safer.

How long do tallow candles last?

The longevity of your homemade tallow candles depends on factors like the amount of tallow used, the wick type, and the candle size. To ensure your candles last as long as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Candle Size: Choose a larger container for your candles to increase their burn time. A bigger candle will take longer to fully melt, meaning it will last for several uses.
  • Wick Type: Opt for the right wick for your candle’s size. A wick that’s too small may burn too quickly, while a wick that’s too large may cause the candle to burn too fast and unevenly. Proper wick selection ensures an even, long-lasting burn.

By making sure your candle is sized appropriately and using the right wick, you can enjoy your homemade tallow candles for many months to come.

How to store tallow candles properly?

To ensure your tallow candles last as long as possible, store them in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. A basement is an ideal location due to its consistent, cool temperature. If you don’t have a basement, a low shelf in your closet works well too.

Proper storage will help preserve the quality of the tallow and the essential oils, allowing your candles to last for several years. Just make sure they are kept in a stable, cool environment to prevent any melting or degradation over time.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own tallow candles with essential oils is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to enjoy a natural, toxin-free alternative to commercial candles. Not only do they provide a clean, long-lasting burn, but you can also customize the scent to suit your mood or needs. Whether you’re looking to add a relaxing fragrance to your home, create a unique gift, or have a backup for power outages, homemade tallow candles are an excellent addition to your home. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can enjoy a sustainable, personal touch to your candle collection.

12 SIMPLE FALL PLANTER IDEAS TO ELEVATE YOUR SEASONAL DECOR

Fall isn’t just about pumpkin carving and warm apple pie; it’s also the perfect time to refresh your seasonal decor as the major holidays approach. For many, creating a stunning fall container display filled with vibrant plants and planters can feel overwhelming. With the rich textures, colorful contrasts, and cozy hues of green, purple, blue, red, and brown that define autumn, it’s easy to feel daunted!

To help you avoid endless scrolling on Pinterest and the stress of where to begin, we’ve curated 12 fall container garden ideas that will elevate the front of your home and leave your neighbors in awe!

Herb Gardening During Fall

This rustic hanging arrangement can also serve as a mini herb garden. Instead of opting for typical green foliage, consider using herbs to add edible elements to your container garden. Imagine the delightful aroma of fresh cilantro, golden lemon thyme, and Italian oregano flourishing in your hanging planters.

Most of these herb plants grow tall in the fall and will die back during winter, so be sure to harvest them before the cold truly sets in.

One Drop of Pumpkin Spice

Nothing enhances a front porch in the fall quite like golden pumpkins. Whether they’re short and bumpy or smooth and tall, we love arranging pumpkins of all colors and shapes to bring a touch of excitement to the annual pumpkin patch right at your front steps.

FAUX PUMPKINS

A budget-friendly design trick for your fall container garden is to incorporate older or even broken faux pumpkins. These can be nestled among your foliage for added charm. To create a fuller and more vibrant display, consider spraying them with colorful acrylic paint. This will not only enhance their appearance but also ensure they last throughout the season and even into winter, providing festive decor for years to come.

Hanging Container Gardens

Blooming with vibrant annual flowers, perennials, or lush succulents, hanging baskets provide the perfect finishing touch to your home’s exterior. You can also enjoy your fall container baskets from inside, as the stunning tops of flowers and plants peek just below the window frame.

Add cheerful yellow garden pansies and radiant marigolds for a vibrant burst of color in your planter, along with baby kale to introduce a touch of purple.

The key to achieving a rustic aesthetic is to avoid overplanting the basket. Giving your flowers space to breathe will enhance the overall look of the arrangement. Since hanging baskets can become quite heavy, consider filling the bottom with empty plastic bottles before topping them off with potting soil. This will help keep the basket light and manageable.

Container Garden with Spotlight Purple

Bring the glorious colors of fall right to your door by combining vibrant tones of orange and yellow with cool shades of purple and blue in a single pot.

This ceramic pot, featuring a subtle shade of turquoise, showcases a variety of beautiful plants that create a stunning seasonal display.

A CHARMING SECRET GARDEN

When container gardening, it’s always best to work from back to front. Start by adding tall plants at the rear, such as purple ruby grass and Hameln fountain grass, to create texture. In the front, place chrysanthemums and marigolds to trail gracefully over the edge. For a striking touch, include a bold, single-note purple kale—one of our favorite vegetables—at the bottom. Finally, tuck in some greens to fill in any gaps, achieving a balanced look for this contrasting color palette.

A Fall Planter with a Blaze of Orange

A fantastic tip for fall planters is to leverage the height of ornamental grasses to create balance in a large planter box.

Start by filling your planter with tall, dramatic grasses such as fountain grass, ruby grass, maiden grass, or Indian grass. For an extra pop of color at the bottom, add flowering kale or cabbage. The rich gold, orange, and purple hues will beautifully complement a farmhouse-style planter, brightening up your shaded front porch. This stunning fall display will last until your first frost.

Ornamental kale and its cousin, ornamental cabbage, are the stars of the season. Requiring minimal maintenance while delivering a striking visual impact, this vibrant combination features fall favorites and a blaze of orange that’s sure to turn heads.

A Dose of Green

Looking to enhance the beauty and interest of your home’s exterior while boosting your curb appeal? Window boxes are the perfect landscaping solution to showcase your style.

This stunning fall container features a harmonious palette of greens and whites. At the center, white caladium plants create a focal point, with greens evenly spaced around them. Fill any empty spaces with white violas nestled between the grey-leafed Lamium and variegated English ivy, finishing the box with a ring of white sweet alyssum. The graceful Creeping Jenny spilling over the sides adds the final touch of elegance.

What’s truly unexpected is how effortlessly this window box maintains a palette of greens, relying on tone and variation to create a harmonious blend of color and shape. While it may be a window box, it’s anything but confined. With regular watering, these plants will thrive in a partially shady spot throughout the season and into winter.

Perennials Make Good Fall Plant Partners

Evergreen perennial plants are an excellent addition to your fall containers, as they can withstand light frost and help protect other plants from freezing temperatures.

Creeping Jenny, a trailing evergreen perennial with small, waxy round leaves on slender stems, is particularly effective for container gardening alongside more delicate plants and flowers. When frost threatens, simply use the trailing leaves to cover the soil around the vulnerable plants. This will act as a natural mulch, helping to keep them warm and insulated.

Additionally, perennials add a stunning touch to your front porch, with plants like Bloody Geraniums transforming into vibrant shades of red and brown in the fall.

Dress Up Your Front Porch Fall Container Garden

Layer your entrance or walkway with a cascading arrangement of the season’s most popular gourds, flowers, and fall-themed plants. This beautiful display will greet you warmly every day as you come home.

CREATE A CONTRAST OF FALL COLORS

Incorporate a handful of fall hues—yellow, orange, and red—to create that iconic seasonal display. Fill your front porch with an assortment of faux pumpkins, straw bales, and dried fall foliage at the base for a look that remains beautiful all season long. This combination results in a cozy porch that beckons you to sit and enjoy a sunset with a warm mug of apple cider!

Cheeky Hideaway

Picture this stunning paper flower gracing a dreamy garden or a light-filled screened porch. The lanterns are adorned with classic patterns and faux-flame candles, adding a romantic touch, but it’s the overall arrangement that truly evokes a sense of magic.

The secret to achieving this dreamy look lies in incorporating signature decor items. Beautiful lanterns, candles, and vibrant spires of both white and pink Bougainvillea glabra come together in a cascade of bright colors, creating a festive atmosphere. Set in an ornamental shape, the simple monochrome tone of the lantern invites you to imagine stepping into a wonderland.

Fall Favorites

Infuse your front porch with a touch of farmhouse style by filling oversized, rustic wicker containers with delightful fall blooms. If you find a single pot a bit dull, we recommend using two fall planters to showcase the fresh bounty of autumn.

Select containers that resonate with you; metal laundry pots are especially durable and can withstand strong winds. The left fall container garden features Helichrysum Icicles at the back, accompanied by Creeping Jenny, pansies, flowering kale, black-eyed Susans, and Sedum Autumn Joy. While yellow pansies and kale are excellent choices for a vibrant fall display, the silvery foliage of the Icicles licorice plant adds a perfect accent to round out the season.

The wire basket on the right showcases Swiss chard, ornamental peppers, pansies, black-eyed Susans, and golden sage. The annual pansies provide vibrant late-season color, while the peppers add a touch of summer red, creating a striking contrast. This fragrant combination of purple and red continues to thrive through winter, ensuring a blooming display all season long.

Polish Off Fall Planters with Succulent Glory

You won’t find any plants better suited for growing in pots than succulents. Native primarily to arid regions, these resilient plants store water in their fleshy leaves, stems, and roots, allowing them to withstand drought conditions. With a wide variety of colors, shapes, and patterns, succulents offer endless possibilities for creating beautiful combinations.

It’s ideal to use a wide, extra-large planter to accommodate the spreading nature of each succulent. Modernize your fall accents with a playful mix of these plants, allowing their dense foliage to cover the entire surface of the soil. With their incredible variety and elegant architectural forms, succulents are irresistibly drawing us to the “green” side.

Cottage Charmer

Who needs fall flowers when you can turn to colorful foliage and leafy perennials to create a fall-worthy symphony? Add pops of purple, mini pumpkins, and hearty cabbage and purple kale to an old wooden dough bowl for a stunning display. Sugar Plum Heuchera, Red Giant mustard, and ornamental kale and cabbage are arranged directly in the bowl, forming a cool purple foundation that enhances the seasonal aesthetic.

Next, add various greens like Creeping Jenny, Lemon Ball sedum, and Ogon sedum (keeping them in their containers) to brighten the deep purple color palette. Fill in any empty areas with moss to conceal the containers, and tuck in some white mini pumpkins for a delightful seasonal touch.

conclusion

Incorporating these elements into your seasonal decor not only enhances the beauty of your space but also invites a sense of warmth and wonder. By thoughtfully selecting plants, lanterns, and signature decor items, you can create a stunning display that reflects the vibrant spirit of fall. Whether you’re setting the scene for a cozy evening at home or preparing for festive gatherings, these design ideas will help you cultivate an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of the season.