Candle making has become a popular hobby for those who love the soft glow of candlelight or the aroma of a scented candle. Candles are always good to have on hand, and they also make wonderful gifts. They’re also reasonably easy to make with a few simple supplies.

One of the most important aspects of a candle is a good wick. You can purchase wicks that are ready to use at craft supply stores, but if you want to have complete control over the finished product, you might want to make your own wicks. It’s easier than you might think.

There are three commonly used types of wicks. Most of the ready-made wicks available in stores are cored wicks, which have a piece of metal wire in the center of them. These types of wicks are quite sturdy and create ample heat, but the may also release lead into the air. This is one of the primary reasons that many candle makers make their own wicks.

The other two types of wicks are flat-braided and square-braided. Square-braided wicks are used when making square or round candles. Flat-braided wicks are mostly used in tapered candles. Here’s how to make a basic braided wick.

What You Need

* Cotton twine
* Scissors
* Bowl
* 1 tbsp. salt
* 2 tbsp. boric acid
* 1 cup water
* Clothespins
* Wax
* Double boiler
* Paper clip
* Wax paper
* Paper towels
* Newspaper

Instructions

1. Cut three pieces of cotton twine, making each piece 4 to 6 inches longer than the candle you plan to make.

2. Mix the water, salt and boric acid in the bowl. Place the pieces of twine in the bowl and soak for 12 hours.

3. Remove the twine from the bowl and hang each piece up individually with clothespins to dry. For best results, leave them hanging for a day or two to ensure that they are completely dry.

4. Braid the pieces of twine together.

5. Place some wax in the top pan of a double boiler that will not be used for cooking. Put water in the bottom pan. Place over low heat, stirring wax frequently until completely melted.

6. Partially straighten the paper clip to create a hook to use for dipping the wick. Dip it into the wax repeatedly until it is completely saturated. Bubbles will be released when the wick is ready.

7. Dip the wick into water, then lay it on wax paper. Use a paper towel to soak up the excess moisture, and let the wick dry for a minute or so.

8. For best results, dip the wick into wax and then water a few more times, letting the wax cool and harden before dipping again. This will create a stronger wick.

9. Roll your finished wicks in newspaper for storage.