Tyler Brooks
Hand-dipped candles are one of the oldest ways of making candles and they can be a fun and creative activity for all ages. They can be made using a variety of waxes, including beeswax, paraffin wax, soy wax, and more. The process involves dipping a wick into melted wax and alternating between wax and cold water to build up layers of wax and create slender taper candles. This method allows for candles of different lengths and thicknesses and they can be made at home with some basic equipment and simple supplies.
Characteristics and Values of Hand-Dipped Candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Beeswax, Paraffin Wax, Soy Wax, Leftover Wax from Old Candles |
| Wick | Cotton, Hemp, or Plain Wick |
| Container | Metal Canister, Tall and Thin Can, Glass (risky), Old Soup Can, Wax Melter, Jar in Hot Water |
| Temperature | 150-170°F (65.5-76.6°C) |
| Process | Dip Wick in Wax, Straighten, Dip in Cold Water, Repeat until Desired Size, Trim Wick, Cut Base, Cure for a Few Months |
| Additional Tips | Use Weights to Straighten Wick, Hang Candles to Cool, Create Layers of Wax, Add Scents or Colours |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right wax
When it comes to choosing the right wax for hand-dipped candles, there are several options available, each with its own advantages and considerations. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you select the best wax for your candle-making project:
Beeswax
Beeswax is a popular choice for hand-dipped candles due to its natural and renewable properties. It burns longer and cleaner than other types of wax, resulting in a brighter flame. Beeswax also introduces fewer unwanted chemicals into your space, making it a healthier option. When purchasing beeswax, you can find it in blocks or pastilles. Pastilles are easier to use as they can be weighed and used directly, whereas blocks require cutting and weighing individual pieces, which can be time-consuming and messy. Traditional dark yellow beeswax pastilles and organic white beeswax pastilles are both suitable options, with the latter being triple-filtered for a lighter, creamier colour. Beeswax burns hotter, so it is recommended to use a larger-sized wick to accommodate this.
Soy Wax
If you're looking for a vegan alternative to beeswax, soy wax is a good option. It is a common choice for container candles but may not perform as well for taper candles created through hand-dipping. Soy wax is widely available and typically burns cleaner than paraffin wax.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is another option for hand-dipped candles, but it may not be suitable for those seeking natural or vegan alternatives. It is important to note that paraffin wax may introduce more unwanted chemicals into your space compared to beeswax.
Wax Temperature
Regardless of the type of wax you choose, it is crucial to monitor the temperature when melting it. Beeswax, for example, should be liquefied and reach a temperature between 150 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit (or 75 degrees Celsius maximum) before dipping the wick. Using a candy thermometer can help you achieve the best results and prevent overheating.
Reusing Wax
Hand-dipped candles allow for the reuse of wax. You can collect leftover wax from previously burned candles or wax shavings from trimming your creations and melt them down for new projects. This is an excellent way to reduce waste and explore creativity with different colours and scents.
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Preparing the wick
The type of wick you use is also important. Plain cotton or hemp wicks are the best options, and you can choose the thickness based on the size of the candle you want to make. Beeswax burns hotter than other types of wax, so a larger size wick is recommended.
To prepare the wick for dipping, attach weights to both ends. This will help form the base of your candle. You can use metal nuts as weights, but some people find that pulling the dipped wick is enough to make it straight. If you're using a weight, remember to gently slice it off with a knife when your candle is almost the desired size. Then, repeat a few more dips for a smooth finish.
When you're happy with the size of your candle, hang it to cool and dry. You can use a drying rack or hang it from a cabinet or hanger. Ensure the wicks don't fall, bend, or touch each other. Once the candle is completely cool, trim the wick with scissors, leaving it long if you prefer, as it can always be trimmed later.
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Melting the wax
To melt the wax, you will need a heat-proof container, such as a metal candle pouring pot or a recycled aluminium can, placed inside a larger pot with water. The height of your container will determine the length of your candles. For example, a standard 14.5-ounce can will make small, four-inch-long candles, while a taller can will be needed for longer candles. It is recommended to use a tall, skinny can to keep the volume of wax low.
When melting the wax, use the double boiler method for safety and even heat distribution. Fill the larger pot with water to a level that is about 15 cm around the canister, and heat the water to melt the wax. The wax should not be heated above 75°C (167°F), and for beeswax specifically, the ideal temperature range is between 150 and 170°F. You can use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, which is recommended for safety and achieving the best results.
Once the wax is melted, you can add essential oils to create scented candles. You can also add colourants to the wax, although natural colourants may not work well.
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Dipping the wick
To begin, cut the wick to double the desired length of your candle. You can use plain cotton or hemp wicks, choosing a thickness based on the size and type of candle you want to make. Attach a weight to both ends of the wick—this will form the base of your candle. Metal nuts or washers can be used as weights, but some people find that pulling the dipped wick is enough to straighten it. If you're making multiple candles, be careful that the wicks don't touch each other.
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. Beeswax is a popular choice for candle dipping because it burns longer and cleaner and won't introduce unwanted chemicals into your space. However, you can also use soy wax or paraffin wax. When using beeswax, the ideal temperature for dipping is between 150 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit (65.5 to 76.6 degrees Celsius).
After dipping the wick into the wax, carefully hang it on a drying rack to set while you repeat the process for the rest of the candles. You can dip your candles into cold water after dipping them in wax to help the wax set faster, but make sure to gently remove any excess water before adding the candle back into the wax.
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Setting the wax
When liquefying beeswax, the ideal temperature range is between 150 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit. A candy thermometer is recommended for best results, as overheating beeswax can be dangerous. Beeswax is highly flammable if it gets too hot, so safety precautions are essential.
Once the wax is liquefied, you can begin the dipping process. Dip the wick into the hot wax to the desired length, then straighten it out with your fingers or by gently pulling on it. Repeat the dipping process several times to build up layers of wax and increase the candle's thickness.
After dipping, you can speed up the setting process by dunking the candle in cold water. This helps the wax harden and set faster. Ensure that you gently remove any excess water from the candle before dipping it back into the wax, as the wax may not stick properly if there are water beads present.
Finally, hang the candles to cool completely. You can use a drying rack or creative solutions like hangers with clothespins or kitchen cabinets. This step ensures the candles harden fully before you trim the wicks and package them.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need wax, a melting pot, and candle ingredients. You can either buy wax or upcycle old candles. You will also need a deep pot for the wax, baker's twine, scissors, and a burner.
The process of dipping candles involves building up layers of wax on a wick. This naturally creates slender taper candles.
Cut the wick to double the desired length of the candle and attach weights to both ends. Hold the wick in the middle and dip it into the hot wax to the desired length.
To get smooth candles, avoid dipping them in cold water as this can cause bubbles and strange formations. Instead, hang the candles on a drying rack to cool and dry between dips.
