There's something about candlelight that instantly transforms an outdoor space. Whether you're hosting a backyard dinner party, relaxing on the porch, or styling a retail display for summer entertaining, outdoor candles provide warmth, ambiance, and even bug-repelling benefits. Learning how to make outdoor candles allows you to create custom pieces that stand up to the elements while adding charm to any patio or garden setting.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from choosing the right wax and containers to adding fragrance oils that perform well outdoors. Whether you’re making a one-time project or developing a line of candles for patio tables, this step-by-step approach will help you craft beautiful, functional candles for any outdoor space.
Why Make Outdoor Candles?
Outdoor candles aren’t just decorative—they’re practical. When made correctly, outside candles can enhance your outdoor environment by:
- Providing soft lighting for patios, porches, and decks
- Potentially helping repel insects with the right essential oils or fragrance blends
- Withstanding warm temperatures and wind when paired with the right wax and containers
- Adding a handcrafted touch to events, retail displays, or seasonal gifting
They also offer an excellent opportunity to create themed products for summer markets, garden parties, or housewarming gifts. With the right design, your DIY outdoor candles can be both beautiful and durable.
Choosing the Right Wax and Container for Outdoor Use
Not all candle waxes perform well outside. For outdoor use, choose a wax that can handle temperature fluctuations and maintain a stable burn.
Best waxes for outdoor candles:
- Soy blends: Offer clean-burning properties with a firmer texture than pure soy
- Paraffin: Holds fragrance well and resists frosting or sweating in heat
- Beeswax: Naturally weather-resistant with a longer burn time
When it comes to containers, durability is key. Look for:
- Metal tins or lidded jars that protect the wax from dust, rain, and debris
- Glass or ceramic containers that are thick and heat-resistant
- Cement or stone vessels for a rustic, heavy-duty look
Using an outdoor candle with a lid also makes storage easier and helps preserve fragrance when the candle isn’t in use.
Fragrance & Additives for Outdoor Candle Performance
Scent is an important part of outdoor candle making—not just for ambiance, but also for function.
To repel insects, citronella is reported to help. Nature’s Garden offers citronella fragrance oil as well as essential oil options that blend beautifully with herbal and citrus notes. Other reported bug-repelling scents include eucalyptus, lemongrass, rosemary, and peppermint.
For fragrance performance outdoors, you’ll want a strong hot throw and a wax that can handle higher fragrance loads. Consider using fragrance stabilizers or UV inhibitors to help your candles hold up under direct sunlight if they’ll be displayed for extended periods.
How to Make Outdoor Candles: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating DIY outdoor candles is similar to making container candles—with just a few modifications for durability and burn time.
- Gather Your Materials
Choose your wax, fragrance oil, dye (optional), wicks, and outdoor-safe containers. Don’t forget tools like a thermometer, pouring pitcher, and wick centering devices. - Choose and Secure the Wick
Select a wick suitable for outdoor use—typically larger and more robust to withstand airflow. Secure it in the center of your container using a wick sticker and a wick bar or clip to keep it upright. - Melt the Wax and Add Fragrance
Melt your wax using a double boiler or melter, monitoring the temperature carefully. Once it reaches the proper range, add your fragrance oil at the recommended load and stir gently to blend. - Pour the Wax
Pour slowly into your container to minimize bubbles. Allow the candle to cool at room temperature on a level surface. - Trim the Wick and Add a Lid
Once the candle is fully set, trim the wick to ¼ inch. If using a lid, ensure the candle is fully cooled before placing it on top.
Let the candle cure for 48–72 hours before burning or selling to ensure optimal fragrance and performance.
Tips for Outdoor Candle Performance and Safety
To get the most out of your outdoor candles, consider the following:
- Wind Protection: Use wider wicks or multiple wicks to help the flame remain steady in outdoor conditions. Shield candles with hurricane jars or lanterns when needed.
- Burn Time: Plan for longer sessions—outdoor candles are often used during gatherings, so use larger containers and high-quality wax for extended burn time.
- Wick Maintenance: Always trim wicks to ¼ inch before burning to prevent smoking and uneven flames.
- Storage: Store outdoor candles with lids when not in use to protect from dust, pollen, and moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wax should I use for outdoor candles?
Soy blends, paraffin, or beeswax all work well. Choose one that holds fragrance and performs reliably in warm temperatures.
Can I make an outdoor candle with a lid?
Yes! Lidded tins or jars are ideal for outdoor use. They help protect the wax when the candle isn’t burning and keep debris out.
Do citronella candles actually work outside?
Citronella is known to help repel mosquitoes, especially when paired with other essential oils. Use a strong fragrance load and burn your candle nearby for best results.
How do I keep my outdoor candles from blowing out?
Use larger wicks or place the candle inside a lantern or hurricane holder to protect the flame from breezes.
Ready to get started? Browse Nature’s Garden’s full line of waxes, fragrance oils, and candle-making supplies to craft your own outdoor-ready creations. Whether you're designing for backyard décor or building a summer product line, making outdoor candles is a fun and functional project that lights up any space.