Skip to Content

How to paint candles with wax

Want to make custom candles for a holiday, home decor, or for a gift? Here’s a complete tutorial on how to paint candles with wax!

I love decorating with candles. There is something so elegant and romantic about a cluster of candlesticks as a centerpiece or on the mantel.

Recently, I have been noticing a lot of patterned candlesticks for sale. They are so cute, but often way overpriced for only 2 candles at a time.

So, being the DIY-er that I am, I had to try my best to make my own set.

Prefer to shop? Click here for a ton of ready-to-buy painted candle options!

Of course, you could just paint onto candlesticks with paint, or use paint pens even! That’s a totally fine option.

But, I’m going to show you how I used wax to paint designs on my wax candles.

It was super easy, though slow going, and very therapeutic and fun to do!

how to paint candles with wax

How to paint candles with wax

Here’s how easy it is to paint candles – with wax!

Supplies needed:

  • Candles – taper or pillar style
  • tea light candles in a contrasting wax color
  • silicone paint brushes
  • Candlestick holders (for tape candles)
supplies to paint candles with wax

Warning: this craft involves working with hot wax. Hot wax can burn you. Be careful, use common sense. Don’t touch the flame with yourself. Don’t touch melted wax with your skin. It’s hot. Ouch!

Steps to make the candles:

Step 1: Light your tea light

Light your tea light. Let it sit for 5+ minutes so the wax is nice and melted.

Step 2: Dip and paint

Once the wax is melted, dip the silicone tip of your paint brush into the hot wax. Quickly move the brush to your candle and paint your design.

This is a bit slow going – you can’t get too much wax at once. Go bit by bit to paint on your design.

Avoid getting the silicone of the brush into the flame – wax only!

Repeat over and over until you are happy with the design.

Step 3: Let dry completely

Place upright or in a candle holder and let the wax dry completely before handling!

I just love how these candles turned out. You could do these for any holiday or color combination. They could be personalized for a gift!

how to paint candles with wax

While it is slow going, it’s easy, and a great way to get crafty and creative!!

Looking for something?

We’ve been doing this since 2012 so we have a LOT of blog posts!
Search stuff like: Ceiling Projects | DIY Plant Stands | Thrift Flips

Charleston Crafted logo banner