Cover your work area with butcher paper or newspaper. Spills or drips are most times unavoidable, and clean-up is much easier if you don’t have to clean wax off of your work surface.

Step 1

The amount of wax needed will vary depending on the size and quantity of cupcakes being made. Including the "icing" a regular sized cupcake will be about 3 ounces. For this project we measured out 36 ounces of wax for 12 cupcakes.

Step 2

Cutting the harder waxes can be tricky. For this demonstration, the wax is scored with a utility knife. Then, the scored piece is placed on the remaining slab and pressure is applied to help break the wax on the score. You may need to do this a few times to get the wax in small enough pieces to fit in the pouring pot. (Be careful not to cut yourself or smash your fingers while doing this.) The wax can be weighed in the pouring pot so you do not have to transfer it from a different container.

Step 3

The wax will need to be heated in a double boiler to 175° - 185°F, depending on the wax you have chosen. To create a double boiler, put about an inch of water in the sauce pan, and then place the pouring pot in the water. It is a good idea to add an inexpensive metal trivet or metal cookie cutter under the pouring pot to elevate it. Doing this ensures the wax is not receiving direct heat from any side. Adjust the heat to a medium-low setting. The water needs to be boiling, but it does not have to come to a rolling boil. If the water is at a rolling boil, it may splatter out of the pan. Check the temperature of the wax occasionally to make certain it is not getting too hot. Adjust the temperature as needed. While the wax is melting, use a cooking spray and coat the cookie sheet that will be used. This will help the wax to release more easily when the wax has cooled.

Step 4

Once the wax has reached the proper temperature, you are ready to add the fragrance oil. Depending on the wax you are using, you could add 0.5 – 1.0 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax. It is most common to add 1 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax. The fragrance is most accurately measured by weight, but you can also use a tablespoon to measure it if the scale you have does not measure a small amount precisely. A tablespoon is equal to about 0.5 ounce. Pour the fragrance into the wax and stir it.

Step 5 (using dye blocks)

The "cake" and "icing" can be different colors if you like. If the "cake" is made into a light color, dye can be added to the remaining wax to make a different color for the "icing."

Next, add the desired amount of dye. If using dye blocks, the block will melt into the wax more quickly if it is cut into small pieces. After adding the desired amount, stir the mixture until it is blended thoroughly. Skip to step 7 if you are using dye blocks.

Step 5 (using liquid dye)

If using liquid dyes, just add the desired amount of drops. Since you can not remove dye once it has been added, it should be added sparingly, especially if you are trying to achieve a light color. You can always add a little more if it is not dark enough. After adding the desired amount, stir the mixture until it is blended thoroughly.

Step 6

When you look at the liquid wax, it will usually look much darker than when it has completely cooled. To test the color, you can drip a small amount of wax onto a paper plate or paper towel. (Make sure not to drip the hot wax on your hands). Allow it to harden, and you will be able to see a more accurate representation of the color. You can then add more dye if desired.

Step 7

At this point, you can add UV stabilizer if you choose. The addition of UV stabilizer will help keep the color from fading if the candles are exposed to UV rays or fluorescent lighting. You would add about ½ teaspoon per pound of wax. Mix everything together very thoroughly. Mixing it for 3 – 5 minutes would be best. Check the temperature again to make sure it is between 175° - 185°F. Remove the pouring pot from the double boiler. The handle of the pouring pot may heat up slightly, so be sure to use a hot pad or something to protect your hand. You may also want to set the pouring pot on a few paper towels to absorb the water from the double boiler.

Step 8

Pour the wax into the cupcake liners. Make sure to fill them slowly so they fill evenly. If the cupcakes are being wicked, the wicks can be glued to the cupcake liner or set in after the wax has been poured. Straighten the wicks occasionally, or use wick bars to help hold them in place. Allow them to cool completely, and they're ready for icing.

Step 9

Re-melt the remaining wax, and add dye if necessary/desired. Let the wax cool until a film is formed across the top. Using a metal fork or a whisk, whip the wax as if you were beating egg whites. Continue to whip the wax until it starts to set up. The sides of the pouring pot will need to be scraped occasionally. The wax is ready to add to the cupcakes when you can "stack" the wax on itself, and it retains its shape. Do not let it set up too much or the icing will not stick to the cupcake.

Step 10

Using the metal fork or spoon, place the "icing" onto the cupcakes. While the wax is still soft, it can be shaped. Make sure to let the cupcakes cool completely before removing them from the pan.

That's it!

You're finished! They are ready for everyone to enjoy with no calorie guilt!

NOTE: Be careful when moving or transporting the cupcakes. The "icing"can flake off if they are bumped or rub against other cupcakes.

Are you ready to give it a try? Get everything you need to start making candles by browsing our selection of candle making supplies or by simply clicking on the items in the Materials List at the top of this page to take you directly to that item on our website. Have fun!

Tag us if you share your creations on your social media accounts! You can use the hashtag #lonestarcommunity and see your beautiful creations on our Lone Star Community Page.