Using a candle making fragrance adds another dimension to our enjoyment of our handcrafted candles. Not only can we enjoyed the look of the candle and its gentle light, but now there is the added sense of scent.

Although the sense of smell is not highly developed and most people and is sometimes considered the least used sense, is still very powerful. I think we've all had the experience of an aroma triggering immediate and powerful memories. Maybe the smell of freshly cut grass reminds us of the summers of our childhood or the smell of a certain perfume triggers thoughts of past romance.

These experiences are powerful enough that we immediately noticed them. However, current research is proving that aromas can influence our mood and level of alertness without even being aware of them. Not only that, but there's some evidence that aromatherapy can actually improve our physical well-being.

All of this is to indicate that there are reasons beyond simple enjoyment of an aroma for adding scent to a candle.

Some candle makers actually make their own fragrance oils to scent their candles. I'll give you the address of a webpage that tells you how to do that in a moment, but most of us will probably be purchasing the scents that we use.

Candle making fragrance is usually available as an oil. In general, most essential oils will work when blended with paraffin wax, even if the essential oil wasn't specifically manufactured for candle making.

Most oils will also work with soy wax, but not quite as universally.

Gel candle wax is a special case. This is not a true wax but instead is mineral oil that's been chemically treated to give it a gel-like consistency. Not all oils will blend with it.

The easiest thing to do with gel wax is to buy candle fragrance made specifically for gel candles. For that matter, it's easiest and safest to do that with any type of wax. As you'll discover if you visit a well stocked craft store or shop online, there is an almost overwhelming assortment of candle making scents available.

In addition to the quality of the oil that you're adding, you need to pay attention to the amount. As you add more oil the finished candle will have a stronger fragrance. However, if you add too much the candle will burn poorly and its appearance will be adversely affected.

You almost always be safe adding 1 ounce of oil per pound of candle wax and even one in 1/2 ounces per pound will usually work well. Going above 2 ounces will usually be problematic unless you're using a wax that the manufacture specifically states can blend with that much essential oil.

Another point to consider when making scented candles is when to ad the scent. My recommendation is to add it immediately before you're about to pour the wax to form the candles. Essential oils are volatile, so if you heat them for a long time you will vaporize the scent and won't be stored in the candle. Your house will smell very nice why you're making candles, but there won't be much aroma in the finished product.

I've seen candle makers add both the dye and fragrance to the wax melter with the hard wax and stir it altogether as the wax melts. I consider this poor technique. I think it's better to melt the wax, then thoroughly blend in the dye and finally add the fragrance.

As I mentioned at the beginning, adding fragrance to candles also adds a new dimension of enjoyment. You get more tips on how to do this successfully visit: