You can get a Presto Pot (Presto Kitchen Kettle) at your local Wal-Mart, or here is a link to one on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Presto-06006-Kitchen-multi-cooker-steamer/dp/B002JM202I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1340234964&sr=8-1&keywords=presto+kitchen+kettle Colorants - definitely use colorants made specifically for candles. Soap colorants won't work. Wicking can be tricky. You have to take into consideration the diameter of your container, the type of wax you're using (soy, paraffin, para-soy, etc.) and additives like fragrance load, colorants, etc. Then, once you determine what might be a good wick to use, you just have to start testing to find what burns properly for your combination of variables. There isn't a perfect "formula" - you just have to begin testing. Here are some instructions if you're using soy container wax: http://rusticescentuals.com/candle-making-directions.html To me, votives are the easiest to make because the wicking issues aren't as difficult.