Brooke Martin
Candle dipping is a fun and hands-on activity for all ages, and a great way to make candles of different shapes and sizes. It is a simple process that involves dipping wicks into melted wax, allowing them to cool, and then repeating the process until the desired thickness is achieved. The type of wax used, such as beeswax, soy wax, or paraffin wax, and the length of the wick will determine the size and burn time of the candle. Candle dipping can be done at home with basic equipment, making it an accessible and creative project for anyone interested in crafting their own candles.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wax
Type of Wax
Beeswax is a popular choice for candle dipping due to its dense nature, which allows for thicker layers and faster results. It also has a longer burn time than soy or paraffin wax and burns cleaner, without introducing unwanted chemicals into your space. Beeswax is a natural, renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly option. However, some people may consider it unethical due to its association with bees. Soy wax is a good alternative if you're looking for a plant-based option, although it may require more dips to achieve the desired thickness. Paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, is another option, but it releases potential carcinogens and is not environmentally friendly. Coconut wax is also available, but it burns quickly and is not recommended for dipped candles.
Wax Form
When using beeswax, you can choose between blocks and pastilles. Blocks require cutting into smaller chunks, which can be time-consuming and messy, while pastilles can be weighed and used directly. Pastilles come in traditional dark yellow or organic white varieties.
Wax Source
You can purchase wax from craft stores or online vendors, such as Amazon or Etsy. Alternatively, you can recycle old candles by chopping them up and melting them down. This allows you to create coloured candles without the need for additional dyes.
Melting Point
The melting point of the wax is an important consideration for safety and ease of use. Beeswax typically melts at temperatures between 150 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit (65.5 to 76.6 degrees Celsius). It is recommended to use a double boiler method to ensure even heat distribution and maintain the wax temperature below 167 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius).
Additives
You can add essential oils to your melted wax to create scented candles. Crayons can also be added to white wax to create coloured candles. However, be cautious when adding too much extra material, as it can affect the burning properties of the wax.
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Preparing the wick
Once you've cut the wick to the desired length, you'll need to attach a weight to each end. You can use a metal nut, washer, or small bolt as a weight. These weights will help the wick stay straight as you dip it into the wax. If you're making two candles, you can fold the wick in half and drape it over a ruler or pencil to keep it stable.
Now you're ready to start dipping! Dip the wick into the melted wax, holding it smoothly and slowly until the wax coats the wick. Allow the wick to remain in the wax for about 30 seconds so that it can soak into the wick. Then, slowly and smoothly pull the wick out of the wax.
If you're using the cold water method to speed up the setting process, dip the wax-coated wick into a bucket of cool water or a jar of cold water. This will help the wax harden and set. Make sure to remove any excess water from the wick before dipping it back into the wax, as the wax won't stick properly if the wick is wet.
Repeat the dipping process until your candle reaches the desired thickness. After a few dips, you can cut off the weights with scissors or a knife. Hang the candles to dry between dips, and make sure they don't touch each other. It's best to let the candles cure for at least a couple of weeks, preferably a few months, before trimming the wicks and lighting them.
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Melting the wax
When melting wax, it is important to use a container that is tall and thin, as this will determine the length of your candle. Recycled aluminium cans or jars can be used, but for regular candle makers, investing in a metal candle pouring pot is recommended. The height of the container will determine the length of your candle, so a tall, skinny can, such as a green bean can, is ideal for longer candles.
Beeswax is a popular choice for candle dipping as it burns longer, cleaner, and is a natural, renewable resource. It also has a denser consistency than soy wax, resulting in thicker layers and a speedier process. Soy wax is a good alternative, especially for those seeking a vegan option, but it requires a different cooling process. Paraffin wax is another option, but it releases potential carcinogens and is a petroleum byproduct, making it less environmentally friendly.
When melting wax, it is important to prepare your workspace by laying out parchment paper to make cleanup easier and avoiding any wax going down the drain. You will also need a jar of cold water nearby to help set the wax after dipping, unless you are using soy wax, as this can cause air pocket bubbles.
You can add essential oils to your melted wax to create scented candles, and crayons or candle colouring can be used to add colour. Chopping up old candles is also a great way to recycle them and create new, functional candles.
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Dipping the wick
Next, melt your wax of choice in a double boiler or a jar placed in a pot of water. Beeswax is a popular choice for candle dipping as it burns longer and cleaner than paraffin and soy wax. However, soy wax is a good alternative if you are looking for a vegan option. Once the wax has melted, remove the jar from the pot and place it in your working area.
Now you are ready to start dipping! Hold the wick in the middle and slowly dip it into the hot wax to the desired length. Leave it to cool for about a minute, then dip it again. Continue dipping and hanging to dry for about two minutes after each dip until you reach the desired thickness. You can add more wax as needed to maintain the wax level in the canister.
If you want to speed up the setting process, you can dip the candle into cold water after dipping it into the wax. Just make sure there are no beads of water on the candle before adding it back into the wax, or the wax won't stick properly. You can also hang the candles to cool and dry between dips.
Once your candle has reached the desired thickness, hang it on a drying rack to fully harden for up to 12 hours. Then, trim the wick to approximately 1/8" before lighting.
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Trimming the candle
Before you trim, prepare your wicks by cutting them to double the desired length of the candle, plus an extra 4 inches. This will allow for the wicks to be exposed for trimming, lighting, and any errors in the dipping process. It is also recommended to attach weights to both ends of the wick, which can be cut off later once the candle has gained enough weight to sink into the hot wax on its own.
Once the candles are as large as you would like and fully dry, trim the wicks with scissors. You can leave them long for gifting if you wish, and they can be trimmed later. The candles should be hung on a drying rack to fully harden before the wicks are snipped. It is important to note that the drying time can vary depending on the type of wax used. For example, if using soy wax, it is recommended to avoid dipping the candles in cool water to set them, as this can cause air pocket bubbles.
After trimming, the candles can be cut at the bottom with a sharp knife to create a flat base. The excess wax from the bottom can be reused. It is also important to let the candles cure for at least a couple of weeks, preferably a few months, before burning them. This curing process ensures the best burning time and allows the candles to harden further.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a heat-proof container, a larger pot, a stove, a candy thermometer, a drying rack, scissors, and wicks. You can use a metal cookie cutter to keep the container from sitting directly on the bottom of the pot.
Beeswax is a good option for dipping candles as it burns longer, cleaner, and without introducing unwanted chemicals. Soy wax is a good alternative, but it can be prone to air pocket bubbles if dipped in cool water.
Cut the wick to double the desired length of the candle and attach weights to both ends. This will result in two candles. You can use a pencil to hold the wick as you dip it into the wax.
Melt the wax in the double boiler, then remove the jar from the heat. Dip the wick into the wax to the desired length, then hang it on a drying rack. Repeat the process until you have reached the desired thickness, then hang the candles to dry for up to 12 hours.
