How To Make Concrete Candle Vessels

Materials Needed

Before you embark on making your own concrete candle vessels, make sure you have the following materials ready:

Concrete mix
Water
Mold (such as a plastic container or silicone mold)
Release agent (such as cooking spray or silicone spray)
Candle holder or a small glass jar
Mixing container (such as a bucket or large bowl)
Disposable gloves
Protective eyewear
Mixing tool (such as a wooden stick or trowel)
Measuring cup or scale
Masking tape
Sandpaper
Optional: Decorative elements (such as colored pigments, embellishments, or pieces of glass)

These materials can be easily found at your local hardware store or online.

When choosing a mold, consider the size and shape you want for your concrete candle vessels. You can use a variety of molds, including plastic containers, silicone molds, or even repurposed household items like jars or cups.

Ensure that you have a release agent on hand to prevent the concrete from sticking to the mold. Cooking spray or silicone spray can be used as effective release agents.

Disposable gloves and protective eyewear are essential to protect yourself during the mixing and pouring process. Concrete can be caustic, so taking safety precautions is crucial.

Lastly, if you want to add a touch of personalization to your concrete candle vessels, consider incorporating decorative elements. Colored pigments, embellishments, or pieces of glass can add a unique flair to your final creation.

Step 1: Preparing the Mold

Before you start pouring the concrete, it is crucial to properly prepare the mold. Follow these steps:

Ensure the mold is clean and free from any dirt or debris. This will ensure a smooth finish on your concrete candle vessel.
If you’re using a plastic container as a mold, apply a release agent to the inside surface. Simply spray cooking spray or silicone spray evenly on the interior. This will help release the concrete easily once it has cured.
If you’re using a silicone mold, no release agent is required as it naturally allows for easy removal of the cured concrete.
Position the candle holder or small glass jar inside the mold in the desired location. You can secure it in place using masking tape if needed. This will create a space for the candle to sit once the concrete is set.
Double-check that the candle holder is centered and level. Adjust as necessary before moving on to the next step.

Preparing the mold properly is essential for achieving the desired shape and ensuring the candle holder is securely positioned. Take your time during this step to ensure everything is properly aligned.

Step 2: Mixing the Concrete

Now that the mold is prepared, it’s time to mix the concrete. Follow these steps:

Put on your disposable gloves and protective eyewear to protect yourself from any potential irritants in the concrete mix.
In a mixing container, combine the concrete mix and water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a measuring cup or scale to ensure accurate measurements.
Start by adding a small amount of water to the mix and gradually add more as needed. The concrete should have a consistency similar to pancake batter. Be careful not to add too much water, as this can weaken the final structure of your candle vessel.
Mix the concrete thoroughly using a mixing tool, such as a wooden stick or trowel. Make sure there are no lumps and the mixture is well-combined.
If you want to add colored pigments or other decorative elements to your concrete, now is the time to do so. Mix in the pigments or embellishments until they are evenly distributed throughout the concrete.

Mixing the concrete properly is essential for achieving a strong and smooth finish. Take your time during this step to ensure that all the ingredients are well-combined, and any added pigments or decorative elements are thoroughly mixed in.

Step 3: Pouring the Concrete

With the concrete mixture fully prepared, it’s time to pour it into the mold. Follow these steps:

Carefully pour the mixed concrete into the prepared mold. Start by filling the mold about halfway or slightly more, depending on the desired thickness of your candle vessel walls.
Once the mold is partially filled, tap it gently on a flat surface to remove any air bubbles. This will help ensure a solid and even finished product.
Continue pouring the concrete into the mold until it reaches the desired height. Take care not to overflow the mold. If needed, use a trowel or the mixing tool to level the surface of the concrete.
After pouring the concrete, tap the sides of the mold again to release any additional air bubbles that may have formed.

Pouring the concrete requires precision and a steady hand. Take your time and be mindful of the mold’s capacity as you fill it. Removing air bubbles is crucial to prevent any weak spots or imperfections in the final result.

Step 4: Adding the Candle Holder

Now that the concrete is poured, it’s time to insert the candle holder into the mold. Follow these steps:

Take the prepared candle holder or small glass jar and gently push it into the partially poured concrete. Ensure that it is centered and positioned securely.
If needed, use masking tape to hold the candle holder in place while the concrete sets. This will prevent it from shifting or moving during the curing process.
Press the candle holder down slightly into the concrete to ensure proper adhesion and stability.
Wipe away any excess concrete that may have been displaced during the insertion process.

Adding the candle holder is a crucial step to provide a designated space for the candle. Take your time to accurately position and secure it in place to achieve the desired aesthetic and functionality.

Step 5: Removing the Mold

Once the concrete has cured and hardened, it’s time to remove the mold. Follow these steps to safely and effectively remove the mold:

Carefully remove any tape or supports that were holding the mold in place.
Gently flex or tap the sides of the mold to loosen it from the concrete. Take your time and be patient to avoid damaging the finished candle vessel.
Once the mold is loosened, slowly and steadily lift it away from the concrete. If necessary, use a small tool, such as a screwdriver or palette knife, to help separate the mold from the edges.
Inspect the concrete candle vessel for any areas that may have stuck to the mold or any rough edges that need to be smoothed out.
If there are any rough areas, use sandpaper to gently sand them down until the surface is smooth and even.
Wipe away any dust or debris from the sanding process.

Removing the mold requires patience and precision to avoid any damage to the finished concrete candle vessel. Take your time and be gentle when separating the mold from the concrete. Smooth out any imperfections to achieve a polished and professional-looking result.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

After removing the mold and ensuring the concrete candle vessel is smooth, it’s time to add some finishing touches. Follow these steps to enhance the appearance of your creation:

Inspect the surface of the concrete vessel. If there are any visible imperfections or rough spots, gently sand them down using fine-grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth and even.
Consider adding decorative elements to personalize your candle vessel. You can embed colored glass pieces, shells, or other small objects into the concrete before it fully cures. Arrange them in a pattern or create a unique design.
If desired, you can also experiment with different techniques, such as adding colored pigments or painting the surface of the concrete with acrylic paints to achieve a custom look.
Once you are satisfied with the appearance of your concrete candle vessel, wipe away any dust or debris from the surface.
Apply a sealant or concrete sealer to protect the surface and enhance the durability of the vessel. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for proper application.
Allow the sealant or concrete sealer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Adding finishing touches to your concrete candle vessel allows you to express your creativity and customize its appearance. Take your time to achieve the desired look and ensure that the vessel is properly sealed for long-lasting enjoyment.

Step 7: Letting the Concrete Cure

After adding the finishing touches to your concrete candle vessel, it’s important to let it cure properly. The curing process allows the concrete to harden and gain strength. Follow these steps to ensure optimal curing:

Place the cured concrete candle vessel in a dry and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Allow the concrete to cure undisturbed for at least 24 to 48 hours. During this time, the chemical reactions within the concrete will continue, resulting in a stronger and more durable finished product.
Avoid moving or handling the concrete vessel during the curing process to prevent any damage or warping.
After the initial curing period, you can gently touch the surface of the concrete to check its hardness. If it feels solid and no longer gives under pressure, it is likely fully cured.
For optimal strength, it is recommended to let the concrete cure for a minimum of seven days before using it with a candle.

Properly allowing the concrete to cure is essential for achieving a sturdy and long-lasting candle vessel. Patience is key during this step, as rushing the curing process can compromise the structural integrity of the concrete.

Step 8: Adding the Candle

Now that your concrete candle vessel is fully cured, it’s time to add the finishing touch – the candle. Follow these steps to safely and effectively add the candle:

Select a candle that fits the size and style of your concrete vessel. It’s important to choose a candle that is slightly smaller in diameter than the opening of the vessel to ensure a secure fit.
Place the candle holder or small glass jar that was embedded in the concrete back into the designated space. Ensure it is clean and free from any debris.
Light the candle and carefully place it inside the candle holder. Make sure it is centered and stands upright.
Enjoy the warm and inviting ambiance created by your unique concrete candle vessel.

It’s important to exercise caution when lighting the candle and to always monitor it while it is burning. Never leave a burning candle unattended and ensure it is placed on a stable and heat-resistant surface.

Adding the candle is the final step in completing your concrete candle vessel. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful glow and ambiance it creates in your space.