Jessie Taylor
Candle-making is fun and can be a simple DIY project that makes wonderful gifts or even become a home business. There are many different types of candles, such as pillars, container candles, and wax melts, and various types of waxes, including soy wax, beeswax, and paraffin wax. The basic steps to make a candle include choosing a mould or container, adding a wick, melting wax, adding dye or fragrance, and letting the candle cool and harden.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Soy wax, beeswax, paraffin wax |
| Container | Thrift stores, cleaned-out food containers, glass, porcelain, clay pots, silicone moulds, aluminium moulds |
| Wick | Cotton wick, CD 18 cotton wick |
| Scent | Fragrance oils, essential oils |
| Dye | Caribbean Blue dye block |
| Other tools | Stovetop, melting pot, kitchen scale, clothespin, wick sticker, thermometer, safety gloves, fire extinguisher |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wax
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural wax that offers a subtle sweet fragrance without the need for adding scent oils. It is a popular choice for those seeking a more eco-friendly option, as it is made from a renewable resource. However, beeswax can be more expensive than other types of wax and may not be suitable for those with bee-related allergies.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is another natural option that is often more affordable than beeswax. It is made from hydrogenated soybean oil and offers a long burn time. Soy wax is easy to clean up and can be paired with essential oils to create natural candles. However, it is often sold as a blend, so be sure to check the label to ensure you are getting a pure soy wax product.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is the most economical option and is widely available. It is made from petroleum and has a high melting point, resulting in a smaller scent throw. Paraffin wax is the least natural option and its fumes can be toxic, so it is important to work in a well-ventilated area when melting this type of wax.
Other Options
In addition to the waxes mentioned above, you can also explore other types of waxes such as coconut wax, palm wax, or a blend of different waxes. Each type of wax has unique properties that can affect the scent throw, burn time, and overall appearance of your candle. It's important to consider your preferences and the purpose of your candle when making your choice.
Safety Considerations
When working with any type of wax, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Always melt wax in a double boiler or a heat-proof container placed in a pot of simmering water. Never leave melting wax unattended, as it can pose a fire hazard. Additionally, always wear safety gloves when handling hot wax to protect your skin.
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Adding scent and colour
Adding Scent:
Firstly, you need to decide on the type of scent you want to use. You can choose from a wide range of fragrance oils, or opt for natural essential oils. If you want to create a unique scent, you can mix different fragrance oils together. However, be cautious when mixing as adding too much oil can weigh down the wax. The general rule is to use 1 ounce of scent oil for every 1 pound of wax. Use a kitchen scale to measure the weight of your wax, so you know how much scent oil to add.
Adding Colour:
There are several ways to add colour to your candles. One popular method is to use dye blocks, which you can mix into your melted wax. You can also create a marbled effect by pouring coloured wax into a mould with uncoloured wax, allowing the colours to merge and form a unique pattern. Alternatively, you can try layering different coloured waxes in a mould, or hand-dipping a wick into coloured wax to create simple, colourful candles.
Be mindful of the type of wax you are using, as some waxes have higher melting points, which can affect the scent throw—the radius around your candle where the scent will reach when burned. Natural waxes like beeswax have a subtle fragrance, so you may not need to add additional scent.
With these techniques, you can design candles with your desired scents and colours, making them truly personalised.
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Using moulds and containers
To make your own silicone mould, you'll need a container, such as Tupperware, to pour the silicone into, and an item to use as a model for your candle shape. Prepare your container by cleaning and drying it, and if there are any seams, use glue to seal them shut to prevent leaks. Place your model inside the container, ensuring that the side you want as the open part of the candle mould is facing down. Prepare your silicone rubber by mixing the two parts in a 1:1 ratio until they are fully blended. Carefully pour the silicone rubber into the mould container, allowing it to fill up slowly to avoid bubble formation. Leave the mould to cure for around 4-6 hours or overnight at room temperature. Once cured, you can remove it from the container.
Cardboard is another inexpensive and easily accessible material for creating candle moulds. Simply cut a piece of cardboard slightly longer than the desired height of your candle. Roll the cardboard into a cylinder and secure it with tape. You can also use empty toilet paper rolls as moulds for taper candles. For smaller candles, cut the toilet paper roll open, roll it around a pencil, and secure it with glue. Metal tubes, such as copper pipes or stainless steel cooking rings, can also be used as moulds, but avoid containers with ridges, as candles may not slide out easily.
When selecting a wax for your moulded candles, choose one specifically intended for moulds, as they can be challenging to remove from the mould. Harder waxes, such as paraffin, beeswax, palm wax, and soy wax, are better suited for moulded candles as they retain their form during burning. Softer waxes are more suitable for container candles, as they have a lower melting point.
You can also make container candles by pouring melted wax directly into glass or ceramic containers, such as jars, cups, or bowls. Glass is an excellent option for container candles as it is heat resistant, allowing you to burn the candle without removing it from the container. You can repurpose old glass candle containers or use any glass jar with an open mouth and no inward tapering to ensure proper airflow for the flame.
With these mould and container techniques, you can create beautifully shaped and freestanding candles at home.
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Adding the wick
Firstly, ensure your candle container is ready for wicking. Clean the container with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol and a paper towel. This step is important, as it prepares the container for the wick and ensures the candle burns effectively. While the wax is melting, you can proceed with fixing the wick.
The next step is to secure the wick to the bottom of the container. Use a wick sticker or hot glue to attach the metal bottom of the wick to the centre of the container. This will keep the wick in place as you pour in the wax. You can also use a wick bar to secure the wick, which will be removed once the wax has cooled.
Now, you need to ensure the wick stays centred. Use a clothespin or stick to wrap the top of the wick around it, so it remains centred as you pour in the hot wax. If the wick shifts, fix it while the wax is still liquid.
For hand-dipped candles, you can simply dip the length of the wick repeatedly into melted wax. This method does not require a container.
Finally, once the wax has cooled and hardened, trim the wick to the desired length. Your candle is now ready to be lit and enjoyed!
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Troubleshooting
Wax Melting and Pouring
If your wax is not melting properly, ensure that you are using a suitable heat source. Never melt the wax directly over a flame; instead, use a double boiler or a stovetop. When melting wax, do not leave it unattended, as it may catch fire. Once your wax is melted, be cautious when pouring it into your moulds or containers. Always use safety gloves to handle hot wax, and avoid getting water in it.
Wicks
Wick application is crucial to the success of your candle. While the wax is still hot and liquid, centre your wick using a wick sticker or hot glue, and secure it with a clothespin or stick. If your wick shifts, adjust it while the wax is still in a liquid state. Conducting a burn test will help you determine the proper wick size and type for your candles.
Scent and Colour
Adding too much scent oil can weigh down the wax. Aim for a ratio of 1 ounce of scent oil per 1 pound of wax. When creating your own scents by mixing fragrance oils, start with small quantities and adjust as needed. You can mix oils from different brands without issue. To add colour to your candles, use dye blocks, which can be snapped in half or cut with a knife. Stir the dye into the wax thoroughly before adding scent oil.
Moulds and Containers
When using metal moulds, ensure they are properly lubricated with a release agent before pouring wax to avoid sticking. Metal moulds are best for simple shapes without intricate details; for designer candles with curves and details, silicone moulds are recommended. Always use containers that will not melt or catch fire, such as glass or porcelain. Thrift stores can be a great source for unique containers.
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Frequently asked questions
Basic candle-making supplies include wax, a melting pot, a heat source, a container, a wick, and scent oil.
Common types of wax include beeswax, soy wax, and paraffin wax. Beeswax is natural and has a subtle sweet fragrance but can be expensive. Soy wax is usually more affordable than beeswax but is often a blend. Paraffin wax is the most economical but least natural option.
Aim for 1 ounce of scent oil for every 1 pound of wax. Use a kitchen scale to measure the weight of the wax in your container, so you know how much scent oil to add.
You can use a variety of containers, such as glass, porcelain, or clay pots. Avoid containers that can melt or catch fire, like plastic.
You can add dye or colour to your candle by stirring a dye block into the melted wax before pouring it into your container.
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