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How To Make
Travertine Marble Candles

By Bob Sherman

This article was originally published in 1999 and has been rewritten, modernized, and modified for this web site.

This project shows how to make a candle that looks like marble or travertine. It is a very simple technique, and I was able to get good results on my first try. There is one major drawback to these candles - they burn quickly due to the amount of air in them. Although they will burn, these would be best suited to decorative purposes.

The original idea for this technique came from Margie Martino, and I would like to thank her for sharing her creativity. Although my method is somewhat different, I have also included Margie's notes on how she does these.

PLEASE 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 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.

Wax Formula
Any pillar candle wax formula should work. My preferred formula is:

1 pound - 140 Melt Point Paraffin Wax
1 teaspoon - Vybar 103
1 ounce - Scent oil (optional)
Dye to suit

Materials
The following candle supplies and materials will be needed:

Step 1
Prepare the mold.

Step 2
Melt the wax and allow to cool until surface film forms. Dark colors seem to work best.

Step 3
Use a blender or whisk to whip the wax. Only about 25 to 40% should be whipped into a froth.

Step 4
Use a wooden spoon to stir the whipped wax into the un whipped portion.

Step 5
After stirring, immediately fill the mold. Allow it to cool fully. A second pour is not usually necessary.

Step 6
Remove the candle from mold. Do not pull it out by the wick as it may pull out of the candle. Trim the bottom wick.

Step 7
Level the base on a heated pan or electric griddle.

Step 8
Trim the top wick to approximately 1/4 inch (7 mm.).

Step 9
The finished candle.

Detail Photo

Variations
The amount of marbling is directly proportional to the percentage of the wax that is whipped. I suggest experimenting to find an effect that pleases you.

Note From Margie
Margie added this additional information: When I make them, I whip about 1/2 of the wax. I put a scoop or two of whipped, then add some of the un whipped. This helps with contrast. The whipped wax looks lighter in color than the fully melted. Also, I tap the bottom of the mold to settle the wax before it cools. One advantage of these type of candles is that they cool faster than if just all melted wax. You can also use multiple colors, all put into the mold at the same time.

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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 March 1999 and has been modified and republished in October 2007. 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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