easy
1–2 hours
No physical exertion required; accessible to most age groups and fitness levels.
Step into Paddywax Candle Bar in Reston to pour your own custom candle, a creative, hands-on experience perfect for anyone looking to craft a unique scented souvenir in a welcoming studio setting.
Reston, Virginia, situated just outside Washington, D.C., offers more than hiking trails and lakeside views—it is home to Paddywax Candle Bar, a unique hands-on craft experience that sparks creativity in a fresh, unexpected way. At Paddywax Candle Bar - RESTON, visitors trade rugged terrain for the warm glow of pouring wax, carving out an inventive adventure in candle-making that is approachable for all skill levels.
Set in a clean, well-organized studio, Paddywax invites you to build something truly personal. Guests select from a broad collection of vessels—each one carefully designed and distinct in style—paired with a wide palette of scents. Under clear, straightforward guidance and with the support of friendly, knowledgeable staff, including attentive event hosts like Shelby, participants pour their own candles, crafting custom pieces that smell as good as they look.
This opportunity stands apart in the Reston area, blending DIY creativity with a social experience suitable for individuals, families, or groups. It’s a refreshing alternative to conventional outdoor activities, offering a calm, tactile connection to craftsmanship without prior experience required. Locals and visitors alike praise Paddywax for its welcoming atmosphere and straightforward process that leads to consistent, high-quality results—a rare guarantee in DIY workshops.
The combination of scent selection and vessel design allows each candle to tell a story unique to the creator, whether as a thoughtful gift or a personal keepsake. With a convenient location in the heart of Reston Town Center, Paddywax Candle Bar adds a flavorful, creative spark to the region’s vibrant recreational options. After the glowing satisfaction of a successful pour, you’ll leave with more than a candle—you’ll carry a calming moment made by your own hands.
Sessions often fill quickly, so booking ahead ensures you get your preferred date and time for this popular activity.
Dress casually but avoid loose sleeves to prevent wax spills on your clothing during pouring.
Leverage the staff’s expertise to create candle scents that blend well and suit your personal style.
After pouring, give your candle enough time to cool and set correctly before taking it home to avoid imperfections.
Reston was founded in 1964 as one of America’s first modern planned communities, emphasizing accessible green spaces alongside urban amenities.
Paddywax Candle Bar emphasizes sustainable candle materials and encourages minimal waste practices throughout the candle-making experience.
Wear casual clothes that can handle minor wax drips and allow ease of movement.
Bring a tote for carrying your finished candle safely back home.
Masks may be welcome if attending in busy indoor group sessions during flu season.
winter specific
Capture your creative process and final candle to share your experience.