How Do You Fix a Ring in a Candle?
Surprise jewellery candles have become an exciting and creative way to combine the soothing ambience of candles with the thrill of discovering a hidden treasure. Whether you're making a surprise jewellery candle as a gift or for personal enjoyment, embedding a ring inside the candle can make the experience extra special. But how do you properly fix a ring in a candle to ensure safety, usability, and an exciting reveal? In this guide, we will walk you through the best methods, precautions, and tips to successfully embed a ring in a candle.
Understanding the Basics of a Jewelry Candle
A jewelry candle is a candle that contains a hidden piece of jewelry inside its wax. As the candle burns, the wax melts away, gradually revealing the ring or other jewellery item wrapped inside. The key to a well-made jewellery candle lies in safely and effectively embedding the ring while maintaining the candle’s burn quality and scent throw.
Materials You Need
To fix a ring in a candle, you will need the following supplies:
- A candle container (glass jar, tin, or mould)
- Wax (soy wax, paraffin wax, or beeswax)
- A wick
- Fragrance oils (optional)
- Dye or colourant (optional)
- A heat-resistant ring (silver, gold, or stainless steel)
- Aluminum foil or a small plastic bag
- Tweezers (for retrieval)
- Double-sided adhesive or a heat-resistant string (optional for positioning)
- A thermometer (for monitoring wax temperature)
- A stirring utensil
- A glue gun (if securing the ring in place at the bottom)
Step-by-Step Guide to Embedding a Ring in a Candle
Step 1: Select a Safe Ring Material
Not all rings can withstand the heat of molten wax. To ensure safety, choose rings made of metals that can tolerate high temperatures, such as:
- Sterling silver
- Gold
- Stainless steel
Avoid rings with low-quality gemstones or plastic materials that could melt or become damaged inside the candle.
Step 2: Wrap the Ring for Protection
Before embedding the ring in the wax, wrap it carefully to protect it from direct contact with the wax. Use one of the following methods:
- Aluminium foil: Wrap the ring in aluminium foil to create a protective barrier that withstands high temperatures.
- Small plastic or heat-resistant bag: Some candle makers use small plastic bags to keep the ring wax-free, but ensure it is made of a material that won’t melt or release harmful chemicals.
Step 3: Melt the Wax
Use a double boiler to melt your chosen wax type evenly and safely. Follow these steps:
- Fill a saucepan with water and place a heatproof container (like a pouring pot) inside it.
- Add wax to the container and heat it gradually, stirring occasionally.
- Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Different waxes have different melting points:
- Soy wax: 120-180°F (49-82°C)
- Paraffin wax: 130-150°F (54-65°C)
- Beeswax: 144-147°F (62-64°C)
- Add fragrance oil and colour dye once the wax is fully melted. Stir gently to mix evenly.
Step 4: Secure the Wick
Before pouring the wax, make sure the wick is secured properly to prevent movement. Use a wick sticker, glue dot, or a small amount of melted wax to adhere the wick to the bottom of the container.
Step 5: Place the Ring Inside the Candle
There are several methods to properly fix the ring in the candle:
Method 1: Placing the Ring at the Bottom
- Position the wrapped ring at the bottom of the container before pouring the wax.
- Secure it with a small amount of wax or a heat-resistant adhesive so it doesn’t shift.
- Pour wax carefully over the ring, ensuring it stays in place.
Method 2: Suspending the Ring in the Middle
- Pour half of the wax into the container and let it cool slightly until it forms a soft layer.
- Gently place the wrapped ring on the partially solidified wax.
- Pour the remaining wax on top to fully encase the ring.
- This method ensures the ring is discovered midway through burning rather than at the very end.
Method 3: Attaching the Ring with a String
- Tie the wrapped ring with a heat-resistant string or dental floss.
- Secure the string to a stick placed across the top of the container, ensuring the ring hangs at the desired depth.
- Pour the wax into layers, allowing each layer to harden before adding more to keep the ring in position.
- Once the candle has fully set, cut and remove the string.
Step 6: Let the Candle Cure
Allow the candle to cool and solidify completely. This process can take anywhere from 4-24 hours, depending on the wax type and container size. Do not rush this step, as improper cooling can lead to cracks or sinkholes.
Step 7: Test the Candle
Before gifting or selling a jewellery candle, test-burn one to ensure the ring is placed correctly and does not interfere with the wick’s ability to burn evenly. Observe:
- How long it takes for the ring to be revealed.
- Whether the wick burns cleanly and evenly.
- If the scent throw is as expected.
Safety Precautions
Embedding a ring in a candle is a fun process, but safety should always come first:
- Do not place the ring too close to the wick, as it may interfere with burning.
- Avoid using flammable wrapping materials like paper or fabric.
- Use only non-toxic, heat-resistant materials.
- Ensure the ring is well-wrapped to prevent wax contamination.
- Always burn the candle on a heat-resistant surface and never leave it unattended.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: The Ring Sinks to the Bottom
- Solution: Use the suspending method or pour the wax in layers to prevent sinking.
Problem: The Wax is Uneven or Cracks
- Solution: Let each layer cool slightly before adding more wax and avoid rapid temperature changes.
Problem: The Wick Won’t Stay Lit
- Solution: Ensure the ring is placed at a safe distance from the wick and use a properly sized wick for the candle diameter.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a ring in a candle adds an exciting element to a traditional candle-burning experience. Whether you’re making a jewellery candle for yourself or as a gift, following the correct steps ensures that the ring is safely embedded and revealed in a fun and enjoyable way. With proper planning, materials, and techniques, you can create a high-quality surprise candle that combines beauty, scent, and a hidden treasure.