Learn how to make your own mason jar citronella candles to repel bugs and add a touch of charm to your outdoor space. Perfect for summer gatherings and relaxing evenings in the backyard.

When it comes to enjoying the outdoors during the summer, pesky bugs can quickly put a damper on the fun. But fear not! With mason jar citronella candles, you can keep those unwelcome bugs at bay while adding a touch of style to your outdoor space.

We are showing you how to make your own DIY citronella candles, ensuring you have a bug-free and pleasant environment for your summer gatherings or peaceful evenings in the backyard.

Creating your own homemade citronella candles is a breeze, even if you’re not typically a DIY type of person. You’ll be surprised at how simple and enjoyable the process can be. 

You can get creative with different-sized mason jars and experiment with various scents and decorative accents to personalize your citronella candles. Personalize your candles by selecting jars that match your outdoor space, such as delightful blue mason jars.  Looking for a smaller option? Opt for jam jars and a smaller wick.  

Enhance your outdoor ambiance with citronella candles that effortlessly complement your outdoor decor. Your DIY Citronella Candles in Mason Jars are a great way to provide functional bug repellent but also add a charming touch to your outdoor decor.

These homemade citronella candles also make a fun hostess gift, perfect for impressing your friends at the next BBQ gathering throughout the summer months. 

Ready to create your own DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles? Check out our step-by-step tutorial for detailed instructions and get ready to enjoy bug-free summer nights. 

How to Make Citronella Candles 

Supplies

• Tiki Torch replacement wicks or 1/8 inch wicks (Opt for natural wicks made of cotton or hemp, as they burn more cleanly and evenly compared to synthetic wicks. This will help your citronella candles last longer and provide a steady flame)
• Glass Mason Jars with metal lids
• Real Citronella Oil or Citronella Torch Fuel (Look for high-quality citronella oil that is specifically designed for candle-making. This will ensure that the scent is strong and effective in repelling mosquitoes and other insects.) 

Directions

Prepare your work area by covering it with newspaper or a protective layer to catch any spills or drips.

The first step is to make a hole in your mason jar lid with a drill bit right in the middle of your lid. Ensure that the wick is centered and straight.

Pull your wick through the hole, you will want to leave about 2 inches of the wick out of the hole, make sure the rest goes all the way to the bottom of the jar.

Fill the glass jars with the citronella and any desired essential oils for fragrance. Stir well to combine and screw the top of the jar on.

If desired, you can add decorative elements to the outside of the mason jars, such as ribbons, twine, or labels. 

Trim the wick to an appropriate length, leaving about 1/4 inch above the wax surface.

How to Use Mason Jar Citronella Candles

Now that your mason jar citronella candles are ready, it’s time to light them up and enjoy bug-free evenings in your outdoor space. 

Place the candles strategically around your patio, deck, or garden, letting the citronella scent keeping the bugs away. Remember to extinguish the candles safely when not in use and your citronella candles are for outdoor use only. 

When not in use, store your mason jar citronella candles in a cool, dry place to maintain their quality and fragrance. This will ensure that they are ready to use whenever you need them for your next outdoor adventure.

See Also:

• Summer Bucket List Ideas
• Pool Party Appetizer Ideas
• Pool Party Dessert Ideas

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DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles

Yield: 1 mason jar citronella candle

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Difficulty: easy

Estimated Cost: $5

Learn how to make your own mason jar citronella candles to repel bugs and add a touch of charm to your outdoor space. Perfect for summer gatherings and relaxing evenings in the backyard.

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Materials

• Tiki Torch replacement wicks or 1/8" candle wicks,
• A Mason Jar with lid,
• Citronella

Tools

• a screwdriver and hammer or a dremel

Instructions

1. I opted to use one of my mason jars and a lid meant to transform your mason jar into a cup. It worked perfectly for my purpose!
2. Just keep in mind if you do this, to remove the rubber stopper.
3. If you don't use a lid like this and decide to use the mason jar lid, use a screwdriver and hammer or a dremel to poke a hole in the middle of your lid.
4. Pull your wick through the hole, fill the jar with citronella and voila! A DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candle!

Notes

Tip: Having trouble getting the wick through the hole? Use a small piece of duct tape to wrap the end of the wick and then pull it through the hole.

Did you make this project?

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