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Getting into candle making can seem daunting, especially when you start researching it online: calculating fragrance loads; choosing the right wax, wick and vessel for the optimal burn; triple-checking melt temperatures. But what if it could be easy? And the end result was higher quality than half the stuff you find in stores?

That’s what got me into Siblings candles a little over a year ago—the eco-friendly kits are practically foolproof to use. And when the brand offered to send its latest collaboration, a Spiced Maple Butter Cookie candle, designed with Jenna of food blog Butternut Bakery, I couldn’t wait to try it out. While I had some hesitations about a food-scented candle (they can often be cloyingly sweet), this one makes any room smell like Christmas morning. All the time.

Photos: Candace Braun Davison

What Makes Siblings Candles Special?

I love the smooth, clean burn of the coconut blend wax (which I find produces less soot than other waxes, something others have backed up), elegant-yet-unexpected scent blends and the brand’s commitment to sustainability. It encourages reusing vessels, instead of throwing them out every time you burn through a candle, and the packaging for the kit is compostable. Plus, Siblings works with the reforestation and conservation company, Pachama, to be carbon neutral.

How Do You Make a Siblings Candle?

It’s by far the easiest, most straightforward candle kit I’ve tested.

  1. You take out the wick, warning label and wick holder, then microwave the bag of wax in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2 minutes.
  2. While the wax melts, you can peel the sticker off the wick and insert it into the middle of your vessel, adding the warning/care label to the bottom. Keep the wick centered using the included wick holder—basically a popsicle stick with a hole in the middle for the wick to go through—and carefully pour the hot wax into the jar. Let it sit for at least 2 hours to cure, though I like to leave mine overnight to really let things set.
  3. Remove the wick holder and trim the wick to a quarter-inch above the wax. (Which, BTW, you should be trimming the wick after each burn—something many of us rarely do, but it makes a huge difference in how sooty the candle burns!)

What Should I Put the Candle In?

In terms of vessels, you could use a cleaned-out candle jar that’s roughly 3 inches in diameter and can hold more than 10 ounces of wax, per the brand. But Siblings honestly has some of the most beautiful, durable vessels around, so it might be worth splurging for one of theirs that you can use over and over again, since you know it’s designed and tested for this wax and these temperatures. Absolutely do not put it in anything plastic, wooden or that could easily tip over. (Siblings offers more guidance on this on its FAQ page.)

I use the Brass Forever Vessel, which is no longer sold, and as part of the Spiced Maple Butter Cookie bundle, I received—and tested—the limited-edition ceramic Forever Vessel in a Speckled Cream glaze. It’s elegant and looks delicate yet still feels sturdy.

How Much Are Siblings Candles?

The kit to make a single candle costs $26, though you’ll have to supply your own vessel. You can save a few bucks ($3, exactly) if you order a three-scent bundle, or if you buy a Forever Vessel and scent bundle.

Siblings’ Spiced Maple Butter Cookie, Reviewed:

The Pros:

  • Great cold and hot throw, meaning it doesn’t even have to be lit to offer a gentle, cinnamon-y scent
  • The scent is cinnamon-forward, with a light maple and vanilla flavor
  • It’s fast and easy to make
  • Includes a recipe for Spiced Maple Butter Cookies from Butternut Bakery

The Cons:

  • You need to supply your own vessel, unless you buy one (which can be pricey—they range from $45 to $48 apiece)
  • Cinnamon notes may be too strong for some; reminded one person of a “cinnamon broom you get around the holidays,” though others said it reminded them of Christmas cookie decorating parties or cinnamon rolls

The Verdict: Is the Siblings Spiced Maple Butter Cookie Candle Worth Buying?

Yes, both for yourself to get into the holiday spirit, and as a holiday gift for a friend. It’s the kind of low-effort craft that’s great for feeling cozy (and productive) on a chilly winter morning—without making a mess or requiring pro-level DIY skills or equipment.

You can buy the Spiced Maple Butter Cookie Candle by itself or with a Forever Vessel as a bundle through Siblings.co.

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