How To Turn Mugs Into Candles. It’s Easy.
Photo by Pell Barra
Table of Contents
Why Turn Your Mugs Into Candles?
Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about why mug candles are worth the effort. As coffee enthusiasts, we understand the attachment to our favorite ceramic vessels—each one tells a story. Transforming them into candles gives these special pieces a second life while:
Reducing waste by upcycling items you already own
Creating personalized gifts that friends and family will cherish
Saving money compared to high-end boutique candles
Customizing scents to perfectly match your mood or season
Preserving memories attached to meaningful mugs
Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about sipping your morning coffee while a candle flickers in one of its ceramic siblings. It creates a beautiful harmony in your coffee ritual.
Considering buying a mug for that special person? Read our article here on why ceramic mugs make a perfect gift so you can make their jaw drop!
Supplies You'll Need
Let's gather everything you'll need for this project:
Essential Supplies:
Ceramic or glass mugs (more on selecting the right ones below)
Candle wax (soy, beeswax, or paraffin)
Candle wicks with metal bases
Wick stickers or hot glue gun
Fragrance oils or essential oils (optional)
Candle dye chips or blocks (optional)
Wooden skewers or pencils
Double boiler or microwaveable pouring pitcher
Kitchen scale
Thermometer
Newspaper or craft paper to protect your workspace
Nice-to-Have Items:
Heat-resistant gloves
Wick trimmer
Candle pouring pot with spout
Heat gun (for fixing uneven surfaces)
Don't worry if you don't have specialized equipment—many household items can serve as substitutes. A clean soup can inside a saucepan makes a fine double boiler, and chopsticks work well for securing wicks.
Do you have a cracked ceramic mug that you’re on the fence about using? Read our article here on the truth of drinking from cracked mugs so you can save yourself a headache, and possible a trip to the doctor’s.
Finding the Perfect Mug
Photo by Pell Barra. You can shop this collection here.
Not all mugs are created equal when it comes to candle-making. Here's what to look for:
The Right Mug Should Be:
Made of ceramic or tempered glass – These materials can withstand heat without cracking
Free from cracks or significant chips – Small decorative chips are fine, but structural damage is a no-go
Wide enough – Ideally 2.5-3.5 inches in diameter to allow proper burning
Deep enough – At least 2-3 inches deep to hold enough wax for a decent burn time
Heat-resistant – Most ceramic coffee mugs are designed to handle heat
Avoid Mugs That:
Have hairline cracks (they could expand with heat)
Are made of thin bone china (too delicate)
Feature metallic decoration around the rim (can become damaged)
Have narrow openings (restricts airflow and creates tunneling)
Are treasured heirlooms (just in case something goes wrong)
Perfect Candidates Include:
Gift mugs you never use but can't bear to discard
Mismatched mugs from your collection
Thrift store finds with character
Slightly damaged but structurally sound favorites
Pro tip: Test if your mug is dishwasher and microwave safe—these are usually good indicators that it can handle the heat from a candle flame.
What’s the difference between cracking and crazing anyways, and why does it matter? Read our article here on the differences between cracking and crazing so you can know when you’ve truly lost your mug.
Choosing Your Wax
Photo by Jarrod Reed
The type of wax you select impacts everything from burn time to scent throw. Here are your main options:
Soy Wax
Pros: Natural, clean-burning, excellent scent diffusion, longer burn time
Cons: Can develop a "frosted" look over time, slightly higher cost
Best for: Eco-conscious crafters who want a cleaner burn
Beeswax
Pros: Natural honey scent, purifies air, beautiful golden color, long burn time
Cons: More expensive, can be difficult to scent with added fragrances
Best for: Natural aesthetics and those who love the subtle honey aroma
Paraffin Wax
Pros: Inexpensive, holds color and scent well, bright flame
Cons: Petroleum-based, can produce more soot
Best for: Beginners and budget-conscious crafters
Coconut Wax
Pros: Excellent scent throw, clean burn, good adhesion to container
Cons: Often mixed with other waxes, can be pricier
Best for: Luxury candles with complex scent profiles
For most mug candles, a soy wax or soy blend offers the best combination of quality and ease of use. Look for container-specific waxes that are designed to adhere well to the sides of vessels.
You might not know this but constantly using metal spoons is probably damaging your mugs. Read our article here to learn how and why metal spoons are subtracting from your beautiful mugs.
Selecting the Right Wick
The wick is the unsung hero of your candle—too small and your flame will drown, too large and you'll have excessive smoking. Here's how to choose correctly:
Wick Size Guidelines for Mugs:
For mugs 2-2.5 inches in diameter: ECO 4 or CD 3
For mugs 2.5-3 inches in diameter: ECO 6 or CD 6
For mugs 3-3.5 inches in diameter: ECO 8 or CD 8
For larger mugs: ECO 10 or CD 10
Types of Wicks:
Cotton wicks – Traditional, reliable, and work with most waxes
Wooden wicks – Create a pleasant crackling sound and wider flame
Hemp wicks – Natural option that works well with soy and beeswax
Zinc-core wicks – Provide structural support for larger candles
Remember that the depth of your mug also matters. Your wick should be about 2 inches taller than the height of your filled mug to allow for trimming after the wax sets.
Scenting Your Candle
While unscented candles have their charm, fragrance adds another dimension to your creation. When selecting scents:
Types of Fragrance:
Fragrance oils – Specifically designed for candles with better scent throw
Essential oils – Natural, but typically produce subtler scents in candles
General Guidelines:
Use approximately 1 oz of fragrance per pound of wax (6-10%)
Add fragrance when wax reaches 180-185°F (82-85°C)
Stir gently for 2 minutes to incorporate fully
Scent Pairings Perfect for Coffee Lovers:
Vanilla + Cinnamon = Cozy coffee shop vibes
Coffee + Chocolate = Mocha indulgence
Hazelnut + Caramel = Dessert-like luxury
Cardamom + Orange = Sophisticated spice
Lavender + Coffee = Surprisingly complementary
Remember that some scents may change slightly when combined with the natural aroma of your chosen wax, particularly beeswax.
Curious about which mug shape will keep you coffee warm longest? Read our article here on what mug shapes will keep your brew warm longest so you can sip comfortably, longer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Mug Candle
Now that you have all your materials ready, let's create your mug candle:
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Step 1: Cover your work area with newspaper or kraft paper.
Step 2: Gather all your supplies and equipment.
Step 3: Clean and thoroughly dry your selected mug.
2. Prepare Your Wick
Step 1: Measure your wick by placing it against the mug. It should extend about 2 inches above the top.
Step 2: Attach the wick to the metal base using wick stickers, or if needed, a tiny dab of hot glue.
Step 3: Center the wick at the bottom of your mug.
Step 4: Secure the top of the wick by wrapping it around a skewer or pencil and laying it across the top of the mug.
3. Prepare Your Wax
Step 1: Weigh your wax. Calculate how much you need by filling your mug with water, pouring it into a measuring cup, then multiplying that amount by 0.8 (since wax is less dense than water).
Step 2: Set up your double boiler or heat-safe container.
Step 3: Melt the wax slowly, monitoring the temperature with your thermometer.
Step 4: When the wax reaches about 185°F (85°C), add your fragrance oils if using. Stir gently for 2 minutes.
Step 5: If adding color, incorporate dye chips now and stir until fully dissolved.
Step 6: Allow the wax to cool slightly to 135-145°F (57-63°C) before pouring.
4. Pour Your Candle
Step 1: Double-check that your wick is still centered.
Step 2: Slowly pour the wax into your mug, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top.
Step 3: Tap the sides gently to release any air bubbles.
Step 4: If the center sinks as it cools (common with container candles), reserve some wax to top it off later.
5. Let It Set
Step 1: Allow your candle to cool and solidify completely—this takes 24-48 hours for best results.
Step 2: If needed, pour a second layer of wax to fix any sinkholes around the wick.
Step 3: Once fully set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch above the wax surface.
6. Cure Your Candle
Step 1: Although tempting to light immediately, allow your candle to cure for 3-7 days.
Step 2: Curing improves scent throw and burning performance.
You see that mug sitting on your desk? It’s a lot different than ceramics 1000 years ago. Read our article here on the history of ceramic mugs to see how they’ve changed over time!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even experienced candlemakers encounter challenges. Here's how to fix common problems:
Uneven Surface:
Gently heat the top with a heat gun or hair dryer to remelt and smooth
Pour a thin top layer of clear wax for a professional finish
Wick Issues:
If your wick won't stay centered: Use multiple skewers to hold it in place
If your flame is too small: You likely need a larger wick diameter
If your flame is too large or smoking: Trim the wick shorter or choose a smaller size for your next candle
Wax Pulling Away From Sides:
Pour at a higher temperature next time
Try pre-warming your mug with a hair dryer before pouring
Poor Scent Throw:
Ensure you're using the recommended amount of fragrance
Try a different brand of fragrance oil specifically for candles
Consider using a wax with better scent throw properties
Caring for Your Mug Candles
To get the most enjoyment from your creation:
First Burn:
Always burn your candle until the melt pool reaches the edges of the mug (about 2-3 hours)
This prevents tunneling where wax remains on the sides
Routine Care:
Trim the wick to ¼ inch before each lighting
Never burn for more than 4 hours at a time
Keep away from drafts, which cause uneven burning
Extinguish with a candle snuffer rather than blowing out
Store unused candles in a cool, dark place
Safety First:
Never leave burning candles unattended
Keep away from flammable materials
Place on heat-resistant surfaces
Keep out of reach of children and pets
How to Remove Wax and Reclaim Your Mug
Want to return your mug to coffee duty? Here's how to safely remove all wax residue:
Method 1: The Freeze Method
Step 1: Place your mug in the freezer for several hours. Step 2: Once frozen, the wax will contract and often pop right out. Step 3: Use a butter knife to gently pry out any remaining chunks.
Method 2: The Hot Water Method
Step 1: Boil water in a kettle. Step 2: Pour hot water into the mug, leaving space at the top. Step 3: As the wax melts, it will float to the surface. Step 4: Let cool slightly, then skim off the hardened wax layer. Step 5: Pour out the water and wipe clean.
Method 3: The Oven Method
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C). Step 2: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Step 3: Place the mug upside down on the sheet. Step 4: Heat until the wax melts out (about 15 minutes). Step 5: Remove carefully and wipe clean while still warm.
After removing the wax:
Wash thoroughly with hot, soapy water
For stubborn residue, use a mixture of baking soda and dish soap
Rinse very well before using for beverages again
Creative Design Ideas
Take your mug candles to the next level with these creative touches:
Layered Candles:
Pour different colored layers, allowing each to set before adding the next
Create an ombré effect by gradually adding more colorant with each pour
Embedded Elements:
Add coffee beans between wax layers for visual interest and aroma
Incorporate dried flowers or herbs for a botanical look
Decorative Touches:
Tie cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, or seasonal elements around the outside
Add a personalized tag for gift-giving
Paint the outside of the mug with heat-resistant ceramic paint before making your candle
Seasonal Themes:
Holiday spices for winter (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg)
Fresh florals for spring (lavender, rose, lilac)
Citrus and herb blends for summer (lemongrass, basil, bergamot)
Warm, earthy scents for autumn (pumpkin, amber, sandalwood)
FAQs
Should I throw away a mug with mold?
Not necessarily! Ceramic mugs with mold can often be rescued. Soak the mug in a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water for 10 minutes, then scrub thoroughly with baking soda. Rinse extremely well and let dry completely. If the mold was only on the surface (not in cracks), it's perfectly safe to use for candle-making once sanitized.
Should I drink from cracked mugs?
It's not recommended. Cracks can harbor bacteria that's difficult to clean and could potentially leach substances into your beverage. However, cracked mugs are often still suitable for candle-making as long as the cracks don't compromise structural integrity. The wax will actually seal small cracks, and you won't be consuming anything from the mug.
What are the benefits of ceramic coffee mugs?
Ceramic mugs offer numerous advantages:
They retain heat excellently, keeping your coffee warm longer
They don't impart any flavor to your beverage (unlike some metals)
They're generally microwave-safe for reheating
The thick walls provide insulation for your hands
They're durable and can last for decades with proper care
Their non-porous surface doesn't absorb odors or stains
They make excellent candle containers due to their heat resistance
How to remove candles from mugs?
To remove candle wax from a mug and reclaim it for drinking:
Freeze method: Place the mug in the freezer for several hours until the wax contracts and can be popped out.
Hot water method: Pour boiling water into the mug (not all the way full). The wax will melt and float to the top where you can skim it off once cooled slightly.
Oven method: Place the mug upside down on a foil-lined baking sheet in a 180°F oven until wax melts out.
After removing the bulk of the wax, wash thoroughly with hot, soapy water and scrub any residue with baking soda paste before using for beverages again.
Conclusion
Transforming your unused ceramic mugs into beautiful, functional candles is more than just a craft project—it's a way to breathe new life into beloved items while creating something truly special. Whether you're looking to reduce waste, create personalized gifts, or simply indulge your creative side, DIY mug candles tick all the boxes.
Remember that your first candle might not be perfect, and that's completely okay! Like brewing the perfect cup of coffee, candle-making is an art that improves with practice. Don't be afraid to experiment with different waxes, scents, and decorative elements until you find your signature style.
So gather those neglected mugs, set aside an afternoon, and embrace your inner craftsperson. Soon, you'll be enjoying the warm glow of achievement alongside the flickering flame of your beautiful creation—perhaps while sipping from a matching mug filled with your favorite coffee blend. Happy crafting!