Candle-Bending Is the Most Mesmerizing New TikTok Trend—Here’s How to Do It

If you (or your kid) is an avid TikTok user, you might be familiar with this mesmerizing candle fad. If not, prepare to be amazed by this all-new trend you can do right at home.

Introducing candle-bending. *Cue the ooos and ahhhs* The idea originated on TikTok shortly after users started sharing videos of how they turn ordinary taper candles into conversational pieces. And now, it’s becoming the internet’s must-try fad.

So, what’s the hype all about? Candle-bending is a DIY process that allows you to customize your own candles in four easy steps:

1. Purchase taper candles in the color(s) of your choice. (We like Anthropologie’s hand-dipped set of two.)
2. Submerge the candles in hot water for about 10 to 15 minutes. This can be done in a sink, bathtub, bucket—you name it.
3. Carefully remove from the water and then twist/bend the candles to your liking. (If the candles harden, repeat the process until you have your desired shape.)
4. When finished, run the candles under cold water to solidify the design.

It’s pretty mesmerizing, but it also brought up several burning (sorry, had to) questions. For example, how do you burn a bent candle without catching your house on fire? Well, there are several explanatory videos (see below), which offer tips on how to make the most of your creations.

Basically, all you need to do is rotate the candle as it burns. When necessary, you can shave the side to create a flat surface, so it doesn’t roll over.

BRB, stocking up on candles.