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How To Make
Rustic Log Candles

By Bob Sherman

This article was originally published in August of 2000 and has been rewritten, modernized, and modified for this web site.

This simple technique produces a finish that very much resembles tree bark so I call them log candles. Unlike most candle carving, these are carved once the wax has fully hardened, so sharp tools are essential.

No two come out exactly the same and many variations may be made by varying your cuts and cutting tools. The photo at right shows the simplest version, made with all straight cuts.

SAFETY NOTE! - Candle making can be dangerous if proper safety procedures are not followed. Please read these Safety Rules before attempting any candle making projects.

This project requires the use of sharp tools which must be handled and used with extreme care at all times. This project is not recommended for use with children.

Do not continue beyond this point if you do not have a working knowledge of candle making safety and and fire safety.

This article assumes basic candle making skills. If you are new to candle making, my Introduction To Candle Making Course is free and will show you all the basics for working with wax safely.

The Candle
This technique may be applied to any candle, however I find it looks best when applied to a cold poured candle which provides a more varied texture which translates into a more rustic appearance and more visual interest. Instructions for Cold Pour Candles are available here.

Wax Formula
This is my basic molded candle formula.

1 Pound 140 Melt Point Paraffin Wax
1 teaspoon of Vybar 103
1 Ounce of Scent Oil - Optional
Dye to suit

Candle Making Materials

The following candle making supplies and other materials will be needed:

140 Melt Point Paraffin Wax
Candle Dye
Vybar 103
Mold - this technique may be used with most rigid molds, but is generally better in large diameter molds.
Wick - to match your mold size / wax formula
Scent Oil - Optional
Thermometer
Carving Tool - See below

Carving Tools

This candle is fairly simple and does not require elaborate amounts of equipment. With luck, you may know a wood carver who will lend you a chisel. If not, the information here will help you select the right tool.

Wood carving chisels are available in a wide variety of quality. The main difference is in the quality of the steel, so it is not something readily apparent by looking at it. Better steel can be brought to a shaper edge, and it will hold the edge longer. In general, you should expect to pay between 13.00 and 20.00 for a good quality chisel.

The next thing to consider when purchasing a chisel is the handle. Chisels are available with a palm grip or a mallet handle. Palm grip chisels are easily controlled with one hand and are much more suitable for our use. Mallet handles are designed to be driven into the wood by striking with a mallet. They may also be pushed, but due to the increased size of the handle, two hands are usually used.

The final consideration is sharpening. Since many wood carvers prefer a specific bevel on the edge, most chisels are supplied unsharpened. The one exception to this (to the best of my knowledge) is Flexcut brand chisels which come ready to use. Since sharpening these tools is somewhat tricky due to the shape of the blade, you may wish to purchase from a dealer willing to put a good edge on it, or purchase Flexcut brand chisels. Never work with a dull edge - the results will be of poor quality since you will be tearing instead of cutting.

There is an alternative to buying an expensive woodworking chisel for those who just wish to make a few of these - Xacto® makes an inexpensive line of pre sharpened blades with interchangeable handles, and has both V and U shaped chisels available. These are available at any well stocked hobby / model RR, craft, or art supply store.

1. Wood carving gouges. Gouges are curved chisels ranging from a shallow curve, to a deep U shape. Gouge sizes are given as a number and a width. The smaller the number, the shallower the curvature. This photo shows a range of sizes from #8 through #11 (left to right). A good size to start with is a #11 X 1/4 inch.

2. Wood carving veiners. These are sometimes referred to as V tools. Veiner sizes are given as a width (measured across the top), and an angle. Common angles are 30, 45, 60, 70, 80, and 90 degrees. A good size to start with is 1/4 inch X 45 degrees.

3. To maintain a razor sharp edge, chisels should be stropped before each use. The stropping compound is applied to the strop, then the chisel is held at an angle matching the bevel while pulling towards you. Never push the chisel as it will ruin the strop.

An inexpensive strop may be made with a piece of practice leather and some rouge. The rouge is rubbed onto the rough side of the leather.

Rustic Log Candle Project Instructions

Step 1
For this project I used a round, brown, cold poured candle. A smooth candle may be used, however I chose a cold pour since it would increase the amount of texture.

Step 2
The chisel is run the length of the candle. In this photo a veiner is being used. Use extreme caution and never position your hands where they may get cut by the chisel in case it slips.

Step 3
Closeup of candle textured with a veiner.

Step 4
In this photo a gouge is being used. The chisel is run the length of the candle.

Step 5
Closeup of candle textured with a gouge. Notice that the gouge produces a "softer" effect.

Step 6
Any loose wax should be removed by brushing with a large brush. I use a 2 inch house painting brush for this.

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Disclaimer: The information presented here is accurate to the best of my knowledge and common candle making practices as of the time of this writing. This article was originally published to the internet in August 2000 and has been modified and republished in May 2008. The author and the publisher accept no liability for the use or misuse of any of the information presented in this article. This article is presented for informational purposes and is used at your own risk.

Author: Bob Sherman

Publisher: Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc.

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