Ben Carter
Dipping candles is a hands-on, creative process that involves building up layers of wax on a wick by alternating dips in wax and cold water. It is a traditional method of making candles that can be enjoyed as a calming activity and is a fantastic way to make personalised gifts. With just a few basic materials, such as wax, wicks, and a heat source, you can create beautiful, functional candles in a variety of shapes and sizes. This beginner-friendly craft is an excellent way to explore candle-making and experiment with different techniques to make unique, handmade candles.
How to Dip Candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Beeswax, soy wax, or leftover wax from old candles |
| Wick | Plain cotton or hemp wicks of varying thicknesses |
| Wax Melter | A tall, thin canister or jar placed in a pot of water |
| Wax Melting Temperature | 150°F to 167°F (65.5°C to 75°C) |
| Dipping Process | Alternate between dipping in wax and cold water to set each layer |
| Drying | Hang the candles to dry completely between dips |
| Trimming | Trim the wicks and cut off the candle bases once fully dry |
| Curing | Let the candles cure for a few weeks to several months before burning |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wax
The type of wax you use will depend on the effect you want to achieve. For example, if you want your candles to burn for longer, opt for beeswax over paraffin or soy wax. Beeswax also burns cleaner and won't introduce unwanted chemicals into your space. It is a denser wax than soy and layers on thicker, so the dipping process will be speedier.
You can buy beeswax in blocks or as pastilles. Blocks require more work as they need to be cut into smaller chunks and weighed, whereas pastilles can be weighed and used straight away. Pastilles come in two forms: traditional dark yellow and organic white. The white pellets are triple-filtered and will make lighter, creamier-coloured candles.
If you don't want to use beeswax, soy wax is a good alternative. However, if you want to cool your candles in water between dips to speed up the process, be aware that soy wax will result in air pocket bubbles in your candle.
You could also try making candles with old wax from burnt-out candles. If you're making candles with kids, you can even add crayons to white wax.
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Preparing the wick
Firstly, measure out a length of wick that is equal to twice the desired length of your candle, plus a little extra. For example, if you want to make an 8-inch candle, cut your wick to 20 inches (16 + 4). This will give you enough wick to work with and allow for trimming later. It is recommended to use plain cotton or hemp wicks, and if you are making candles of different sizes, use a variety of thicknesses. If you are using beeswax, opt for a larger size wick as it burns hotter. A size 2/0 square braided cotton wick is a good choice.
Next, attach a small weight to each end of the wick. You can use washers or other small weights, but washers are easier to tie on. This step will help the wick stay straight during the dipping process. Fold your wick in half, so you will be making two candles at once. Drape it over a ruler or pencil to keep it steady and manageable.
Now you are ready to begin dipping your wick into the melted wax. Hold the wick in the middle and carefully lower it into the hot wax, dipping it to your desired length. Be careful not to let the wax exceed the temperature of 150 degrees F, as it will not stick to the wick. Remove the wick from the wax and gently straighten it out with your fingers.
After dipping in the wax, you can then dip the wick into a cup of cold water to help the wax set and harden. Repeat this process of dipping in wax and then water several times to build up layers and achieve your desired thickness. You can alternate between wax and water dips, or simply let the wax cool between dips for about a minute.
Once your candle is the desired size, trim the wicks with scissors, leaving them long if you wish to gift the candles, as they can always be trimmed later. Hang the candles to dry completely before using or packaging them.
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Melting the wax
When melting beeswax, it is common to use a double boiler method, where the wax is placed in a jar or can and then heated indirectly by placing it in a pot of water. This helps to ensure that the wax melts evenly and safely. It is also important to use a container that is taller than the desired length of the finished candles, as this will determine the length of the candles.
Once the wax has melted, it is important to prepare the dipping station. This includes preparing the wicks by cutting them to the desired length, usually twice the desired length of the candle plus a few extra inches, and attaching weights or washers to the ends. The weights help to straighten the wick during dipping and can be cut off once the candle has enough weight to sink into the wax on its own.
The melted wax can also be scented or coloured at this stage by adding essential oils or crayons. It is important to note that the type of wax used can affect the dipping process and the final product. For example, beeswax burns longer and creates a denser candle than soy wax, while soy wax is easier to work with and creates a smoother finish. Coconut wax, on the other hand, burns too quickly for dipped candles and is not recommended.
Overall, melting the wax is a crucial step in the candle-dipping process, and it requires careful preparation and monitoring to ensure the desired results.
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Dipping the wick
Dipping candles is all about building up layers of wax on a wick. The length of the candle you make depends on the length of the wick and the depth of the container of wax. The ideal temperature for dipping candles is around 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the wax remains at this point once it is completely melted. If it gets too hot, the wax won't stick to the wick. If it's too cool, the wax will be lumpy and too thick.
Prepare your wick by cutting it to double the desired length of the candle and attaching a weight to both ends. This will end up being two candles once you're done dipping. You can use washers or small weights to tie onto the ends of the wick, but washers are easier to tie on. Fold your wick in half and add the weight to the bottom end to keep the wick straight during dipping.
Holding the wick in the middle (or using a pencil to hold it if that's easier), dip it into the hot wax to the desired length. Carefully hang it on a drying rack to set while you repeat the process for the rest of the candles. After a couple of dips in the wax, you can cut off the weights with scissors.
Repeat dipping in hot wax until the desired thickness has been reached. You can alternate dipping your candle into the wax and cold water to set each layer. Beeswax candles can be dipped into water between dunks to speed up the process, but this method is not recommended for soy wax as it will create air pocket bubbles in the candle.
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Setting the wax
Setting up the wax for dipping candles involves a few steps. Firstly, you need to decide on the type of wax you want to use. Beeswax is a popular choice as it burns longer, cleaner, and won't introduce unwanted chemicals into your space. It also has a high melting point, ensuring a longer burn time. Soy wax is a good vegan alternative.
Next, you need to melt the wax. This can be done by creating a double boiler. Simply pour about two inches of water into a medium-sized pot, place a canning jar ring in the centre, and set your metal pot or aluminium can on top. The wax should be placed inside the vat, and heated on medium until it liquefies. It is important to keep an eye on the water level, ensuring it doesn't boil down too much.
Beeswax should be heated to a temperature between 150 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit. A candy thermometer can be used to monitor this. It is important to note that beeswax is flammable, so care must be taken when handling hot wax. It should never be left unattended and pot holders should be used when transferring the container.
Once the wax has liquefied, carefully remove the can from the pot, dry off any water, and transfer it to your workspace. At this point, you can begin dipping your wicks, but be aware that the wax may start to solidify after about ten minutes, so reheating may be necessary.
If you are making multiple candles, it is important to let each one set before dipping again. This can be done by hanging them on a drying rack for up to 12 hours. Alternatively, you can dip the candle into cold water to instantly set the wax.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need wax, wicks, a weight to attach to the wicks, a container to melt the wax in, and a pot of water to heat the wax. You can also use a jar of cold water to help the wax set faster.
Beeswax is a popular choice for dipping candles as it burns longer, cleaner, and won't introduce unwanted chemicals. Soy wax is a good vegan alternative.
It is recommended to use a double boiler method to ensure even heat distribution and safety. Place a few inches of water in a pot, then put a canning jar ring in the centre and your wax-filled container on top. Heat the water on medium until the wax melts.
Prepare your wicks by cutting them to double the desired length of the candle and attaching weights to both ends. Hold the wick in the middle and dip it into the hot wax, then carefully hang it to dry. Repeat the dipping process until you reach your desired thickness.
