Maddie James
Taper candles are tall, thin candles that can stand on their own or be placed in holders. They are fun and easy to make, and they can be customised with unique shapes, interesting colours, and fun patterns. To dye taper candles, you can use candle dye or high-quality paint. If using candle dye, add it to the wax as it is melting, and if using paint, simply paint the candles and let them dry. You can also twist taper candles to create a spiral effect.
How to dye taper candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax |
| Dye | Dye blocks, liquid dye, or paint |
| Mold | Silicone or commercial molds |
| Wick | Length should be 2.5x the desired length of the candle |
| Temperature | Melt wax at 185 °F |
| Process | Melt wax, add dye, drape wick over a pencil, dip in wax, hang to solidify, repeat |
| Tips | Experiment with different colours and quantities of dye, oil the mold, use a candy thermometer |
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$11.2 $13.75
Choosing a mould
When it comes to choosing a mould for taper candles, there are a few options available. Each type of mould has its own advantages and considerations to keep in mind. Here are some options to consider:
Silicone Moulds
Silicone moulds are a popular choice for making taper candles due to their flexibility and ease of use. They are made from a rubber-like silicone material that can be easily poured into melted wax. Silicone moulds offer the ability to create intricate designs, such as spiral or striped patterns, adding a unique touch to your candles. They are also known for making the demoulding process simple, although some people have reported challenges with certain complex shapes.
Metal Moulds
Traditional metal moulds are valued for their durability and heat retention. They are commonly used to achieve a smooth finish on taper candles. Metal moulds can be more challenging to work with, especially when it comes to securing the wicks and keeping them aligned. Additionally, releasing the candles from the mould may require techniques like using release spray or running hot water over the mould.
Plastic Moulds
Plastic moulds are an affordable option that comes in various sizes. While they may not provide the same quality of finish as metal or silicone moulds, they can still be effective for taper candles. Some plastic moulds may require additional techniques, such as spraying with canola oil or placing them in the freezer, to facilitate easier removal of the hardened candle.
Choosing the Right Mould for Your Needs
When selecting a mould, consider the desired look and feel of your taper candles. If you want intricate designs and flexibility, silicone moulds are ideal. For a smooth finish and durability, metal moulds are a good choice. If affordability and ease of removal are priorities, plastic moulds may be the best option. Additionally, think about the type of wax you plan to use, as different waxes have varying melting points and behaviours when poured into moulds.
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Melting wax
When melting wax, you can use a double boiler or a wax melter. A double boiler involves placing a small pot containing the wax inside a larger pot filled with water. This method is suitable for melting leftover wax from old candles. You can also use a crockpot or an oven to melt the wax, but be sure to remove any labels or stickers first. If you're using a mould for your taper candles, lightly oil it with olive oil before pouring in the melted wax.
It's important to consider the fragrance you want to add to your taper candles. The type of fragrance and the wax manufacturer's melting temperature recommendations will determine when to add the fragrance. Conventional fragrances can typically be added at 180°F, while essential oils should be added once the wax has cooled to 140°F. If you add essential oils to wax that is too hot, they will burn off and your candles will have little to no scent.
Once your wax is melted and fragranced, you can begin to create your taper candles. Secure the wick in place, either with a pencil or chopstick, or by wrapping the end of the wick around itself. Then, slowly and carefully pour the melted wax into your taper candle mould. Allow the wax to set completely before removing any securing tools and revealing your new taper candle.
If you're reusing wax from old candles, be sure to remove any remaining wicks with tongs before melting the wax. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to your melted wax to create scented candles. Remember to always be cautious when working with hot wax to avoid scalding burns.
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Adding dye
To add colour to taper candles, you must add candle dye to your wax as it is melting. Dye blocks or liquid dye can be used to colour your wax. If you are using dye blocks, use shavings sparingly to achieve the desired shade. For liquid dye, use one drop for every 5 lbs. of wax. Add the dye when the wax is at 185 °F for the best results.
Experiment with different quantities of dye to make stronger or weaker shades. If you are making a set of candles, do not try to make them all identical—instead, pour random quantities to alter the colour split of each one. Layer the colours in different orders, too, and experiment with different colour combinations.
If you are painting your taper candles, use a high-quality paint that does not require a second coat. Keep a paper towel nearby to wipe off wet designs before they dry, and try again if necessary. Allow the designs to dry completely before lighting the candle.
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Setting the wick
Firstly, it's important to select the appropriate wick size for your taper candle. The size of the wick depends on the diameter of your candle. A thinner candle will require a thinner wick, while a thicker candle demands a proportionally larger wick. For example, a small rolled taper candle with a diameter of up to 3/4 inch would typically use a 4/0 wick size. As the diameter increases, so should the wick size.
The type of wax you are using is another critical factor in wick selection. Different waxes have unique properties such as density, melt point, and viscosity, which affect how the wax travels through the wick. For instance, beeswax candles often use square braid wicks, while soy wax candles may require a size smaller than suggested for beeswax. It is worth noting that experimentation is often necessary to find the ideal wick size for your specific wax and candle dimensions.
Additionally, consider the number of wicks you intend to use. If you are using multiple wicks, divide the diameter of your candle by the number of wicks to determine the appropriate size. This will ensure that the wax melts evenly and efficiently.
Commercial wicks often come with a coating of high-melt-point wax, typically paraffin, to help them stand up straight in the melt pool and make them easier to light. However, some wicks are sold without this coating, and you may need to dip them in melted wax yourself, a process known as "priming." This step is not mandatory but can aid in the proper combustion of the candle.
Finally, when burning your taper candle, it is essential to monitor the wick length. After the first hour of burning, trim the wick if it becomes longer than 1/2 inch (1.5 cm). Trimming the wick regularly, approximately every half hour, will prevent the candle from burning too quickly, minimise smoke, and prevent wax spilling.
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Cooling and storing
Once you've dipped your taper candle in wax dye or painted it, it's important to let it cool and dry completely before storing it. Allow the wax to cool at room temperature. Avoid putting it in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause air bubbles to form in the wax.
If you're making a colour-block candle with multiple layers of different colours, let each layer cool completely before adding the next. While the mould is cooling, pour the remaining liquid wax into a container lined with baking paper. When the wax solidifies, you can store it away or remelt it for the next layer.
After your candle has cooled and the design has set, you can store it in a cool, dry place. Store your taper candles upright to prevent bending or warping. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause the wax to melt or soften.
If you're making multiple taper candles, you can speed up the cooling process by placing the candles in front of a fan or in a cool room. Ensure that the candles are protected from dust and other contaminants while cooling by covering them loosely with a piece of cloth or plastic wrap.
Proper cooling and storing of your taper candles will ensure they look their best and burn properly when you're ready to use them.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need wax, a melting pot, a mould, and a wick.
You can use beeswax, soy wax, or paraffin wax. Beeswax and soy wax are natural and burn cleaner, but paraffin wax is cheaper.
You can use candle dye, dye blocks, or liquid dye. Add the dye while the wax is melting. For dye blocks, use shavings sparingly. For liquid dye, use one drop for every 5 lbs. of wax.
Cut a length of wick 2.5 times longer than your mould. Tie one end to a toothpick or skewer and place the mould flat with the wick in the centre. Place the other half of the mould on top and add stoppers to keep it together. Pull the wick taut and seal with Blu Tack.
Place solid-colour paraffin wax taper candles in hot water for 10 minutes until slightly soft. Remove, pat dry, and flatten the middle with a rolling pin. Twist the candle to create designs, then place in cold water to set.
