Experiment in Object Concealment Inside a Candle: A Method Using Paraffin and a Glass Jar
This article describes a practical and accessible method for creating a hidden compartment inside a paraffin candle. Visually, such a candle is indistinguishable from standard decorative candles commonly used for festive purposes, making it suitable for concealing small objects.
Required Materials:
- Paraffin wax — preferably in granulated form for easier and more uniform melting. In this experiment, we used high-purity block paraffin.
- Glass jars — small jars such as those used for baby food or honey are suitable. Dark glass (available on Amazon or eBay) is optimal, as it reduces visual transparency.
- Wick — either ready-made or homemade from cotton thread soaked in wax.
- Wooden skewer or pencil — used to center and hold the wick in place.
- Essential oils (optional) — be aware that added fragrance may be absorbed by the concealed contents.
- Candle dye (optional) — may color the hidden contents.
- Double boiler container — a metal mug, Pyrex glass, or laboratory-grade beaker is recommended.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the jar
The glass jar should be clean and dry. If using new factory-sealed jars, washing and drying can be skipped. Dark glass is preferred, as it masks imperfections or internal layering.
2. Melting the paraffin wax
Place the paraffin in a heat-resistant container and melt it using a water bath (melting point: 50–70 °C). Avoid overheating to prevent smoke. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.
3. Forming the bottom layer
Pour a small amount of melted paraffin into the bottom of the jar to form a uniform layer approximately 3 mm thick. This creates a decorative base and serves as an anchor for the wick.
4. Installing the wick
Before the base solidifies, lower the wick so that its end is embedded in the wax. Secure the upper end using a skewer placed across the jar’s mouth. After 15–20 minutes, once the wax has set, the wick can be trimmed to simplify further steps.
5. Coating the inner walls
Pour a small amount of melted paraffin into the jar — approximately 10–15 ml, depending on its size.
Tilt the jar at an angle and begin slowly rotating it around its axis, keeping it slightly inclined.
This allows the paraffin to flow in a thin layer and simultaneously solidify on the glass surface.
Gradually change the angle of tilt, rotating the jar in different directions so that the paraffin coats the entire inner surface — including the bottom and side walls.
Once the first layer sets (typically in 10–20 seconds), pour in the next portion of paraffin and repeat the rotation.
Continue this process layer by layer until the desired wall thickness is achieved — usually 3–5 layers or about 3 mm total.
6. Inserting the concealed item
Place the chosen item into the cavity with care. Leave at least 1 cm of space from the top of the jar for sealing. To minimize interaction with the paraffin, use hermetically sealed polyethylene bags (preferably double-layered with air removed).
In our experiment, we used a loose powder (NEP), added without packaging, compressed and isolated using a paper disc cut to the inner diameter of the jar.
7. Final sealing
Pour the final layer of paraffin over the contents. Ensure sufficient wax is used to form a smooth, solid top surface without cracks or lumps. This stage is also suitable for adding fragrance or dye, if desired.
Safety and Quality Recommendations:
- Use only high-purity paraffin wax, free of contaminants.
- Never leave melting wax unattended.
- Always wear heat-resistant gloves during handling.
- Add essential oils only to the final layer to avoid contaminating the concealed contents.
Retrieving the Concealed Contents
To retrieve the hidden item, carefully remove the top wax layer.
If the material has come into contact with the paraffin, a hot water extraction can be used:
- Pour boiling water into the jar; the paraffin will melt and rise to the surface.
- After cooling, the wax solidifies and can be removed easily.
- The aqueous phase may be evaporated or crystallized to isolate the residue.
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