Basics of Candle Making

venturist | Mar 31, 2010 |

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Just like any other hobby, candle making is a great way to use your skill and imagination, and more you learn, better you get at it. The first thing you need to make the candles is something to melt the wax, and most people start with the double boiler. The first step towards candle making is to decide on the type of wax you want to use, and you can choose from soy wax, paraffin wax, and base wax. It is also more prone to syneresis, which is sweating of fragrance on the top of the candle.

While heating the candle wax, keep in mind that it is a flammable material with fairly low flash point. Depending on the wax type, the flash point can range between 290-380 degrees Fahrenheit. Melt the soy or paraffin wax, and double-boil it. Most people burn candles for the fragrance they provide, and hence it is very important to use good quality fragrance oil.

Pour pot is used to put the melted wax into candle mold, and there is extensive variety of pour pots available in the market. To make the molded candles, you need to cut the wick approximately two inches taller than the candle height, thread it through the hole at the bottom of the mold and then use the putty to plug the outside of the hole. If you want to add more color, use a thicker wick, else it will turn into a mushroom shape. A chop-stick or pencil can also be used as a wick holder, and some people also use the popsicle stick.

You can use the candle thermometer to measure the temperature, and when the temperature is right, lift the melter using handle, and gradually put the wax into the mold. The height of the candle should at least equal to its width, and do not use very tall container as the wick will not get enough oxygen for burning towards the end. To remove the candle from the rigid mold, invert it and tap gently. You can melt the wax using a wooden spoon.

Flexible and rigid candle molds are available in the craft stores, or you can also use the heat resistant materials such as tin, steel or aluminum. However, 100% soy wax cracks when it cools and is also prone to syneresis, hence you can blend soy with paraffin. Wax soluble dyes can be used to give the color to the candles, or you can also use wax crayons or poster paints instead of ready-made wax dyes. While making the candle, choose the shape and size of the container that provides optimal burn, and ceramic and glass containers are best to use.