Tyler Brooks
Making candles with Crisco is an innovative and cost-effective way to create homemade candles, especially for those looking to avoid traditional waxes like paraffin or soy. Crisco, a vegetable shortening, melts easily and blends well with essential oils or candle dyes, making it a versatile base for DIY candle projects. To start, you’ll need a double boiler to melt the Crisco, wicks, containers, and any desired additives for scent or color. The process involves melting the Crisco, adding your chosen fragrances or dyes, and carefully pouring the mixture into containers with pre-centered wicks. While Crisco candles burn cleaner than paraffin, they have a lower melting point, so they’re best suited for cooler environments or decorative purposes. This method is perfect for beginners or those seeking a natural, budget-friendly alternative to store-bought candles.
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What You'll Learn
- Gather Supplies: Wax, wicks, Crisco, fragrance, dye, containers, thermometer, pouring pot, stirrer
- Prepare Crisco Blend: Mix 1 part Crisco with 3 parts wax for smoother candles
- Melt and Combine: Heat wax and Crisco to 185°F, stir until fully blended
- Add Fragrance/Dye: Incorporate fragrance oil (1 oz per pound) and dye chips carefully
- Pour and Set: Center wicks in containers, pour mixture, let cool 24 hours undisturbed
Gather Supplies: Wax, wicks, Crisco, fragrance, dye, containers, thermometer, pouring pot, stirrer
To begin your candle-making journey with Crisco, you’ll need to gather all the essential supplies. The primary ingredient, wax, can be paraffin wax or soy wax, but Crisco (a vegetable shortening) will be used as an additive to enhance the candle’s burn quality and scent throw. Ensure you have enough wax for your desired number of candles, typically measured by weight. Next, wicks are crucial; choose cotton wicks suitable for the size and type of container you’ll use. Pre-waxed wicks with a sustainer base work best for easy placement. Crisco itself is a key component, so purchase a sufficient quantity to mix with your wax—a general rule is 1-2 tablespoons per pound of wax.
Moving on to optional but highly recommended supplies, fragrance oils and dye will personalize your candles. Select high-quality fragrance oils specifically designed for candle-making to ensure proper scent throw. For dye, opt for candle-specific dye chips or liquid dyes to achieve your desired color without affecting the candle’s burn. Containers are another important consideration; mason jars, tins, or glass containers work well, but ensure they can withstand heat. If using glass, avoid containers with thin walls to prevent cracking.
Your workspace will also require a few tools to ensure a smooth process. A thermometer is essential for monitoring the wax temperature, which should be kept between 180°F and 190°F for optimal results. A pouring pot, preferably made of stainless steel or heat-resistant material, will hold the melted wax mixture. This pot should have a spout for easy and controlled pouring. Additionally, a stirrer—a heat-resistant spoon or spatula—is needed to mix the wax, Crisco, fragrance, and dye thoroughly.
Lastly, prepare your workspace by laying out all supplies within easy reach. Ensure your containers are clean and dry, and your wicks are ready to be centered and secured. Having everything organized before you start melting the wax will make the process more efficient and enjoyable. With all these supplies gathered, you’re now ready to move on to the next steps of melting, mixing, and pouring your Crisco-enhanced candles.
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Prepare Crisco Blend: Mix 1 part Crisco with 3 parts wax for smoother candles
To prepare the Crisco blend for your candles, start by gathering your materials: Crisco (shortening), wax flakes or pellets, and a double boiler or a heat-safe container for melting. The key to achieving smoother candles lies in the precise ratio of Crisco to wax. Measure out 1 part Crisco and 3 parts wax by weight or volume, depending on your preference. For example, if you’re using 1 cup of Crisco, you’ll need 3 cups of wax. This ratio ensures the Crisco is fully incorporated without overpowering the wax, resulting in a candle that burns cleanly and evenly.
Next, set up your double boiler or heat-safe container. If using a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the wax and Crisco into the top pot or a heat-safe container and allow the mixture to melt slowly over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting and thorough blending. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can use a heat-safe container placed in a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water doesn’t splash into the wax mixture.
As the wax and Crisco melt, monitor the temperature to avoid overheating. Ideal melting temperatures typically range between 160°F and 185°F (71°C to 85°C). Use a candy thermometer to keep track of the heat. Overheating can cause the mixture to degrade or burn, affecting the quality of your candles. Once fully melted, remove the mixture from the heat source and let it cool slightly while stirring to maintain a consistent texture.
After the Crisco and wax are fully blended, the mixture should appear smooth and uniform. If you notice any lumps or separation, continue stirring until they dissolve. This blend is now ready to be combined with your chosen fragrance oils or dyes, if desired. Add these elements slowly and stir well to ensure even distribution. The Crisco in the blend will help the fragrance adhere better to the wax, enhancing the scent throw of your candle.
Finally, pour the Crisco-wax blend into your prepared candle containers or molds. Ensure your wicks are centered and secured in place before pouring. Allow the candles to cool and set completely at room temperature, which can take several hours. Once set, trim the wicks to about ¼ inch for optimal burning. The addition of Crisco in this blend not only creates a smoother finish but also improves the overall burn quality, making your homemade candles both beautiful and functional.
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Melt and Combine: Heat wax and Crisco to 185°F, stir until fully blended
To begin the process of making candles with Crisco, you'll need to gather your materials, including wax, Crisco, a double boiler or a heat-safe container, and a thermometer. The first step in the "Melt and Combine" phase is to prepare your double boiler or heat-safe container. If using a double boiler, fill the bottom pan with water and place it on the stove over medium heat. If using a heat-safe container, place it in a pot of water, ensuring the water doesn't overflow into the container. This method ensures even heating and prevents the wax and Crisco from burning.
Once your heating setup is ready, add the desired amount of wax to the top pan or heat-safe container. For every 16 ounces of wax, add 2-3 tablespoons of Crisco. The Crisco helps to improve the scent throw and burn time of the candle. As the wax begins to melt, use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, making sure it doesn't exceed 185°F. This temperature is crucial, as it allows the wax and Crisco to blend together without losing their individual properties. Keep a close eye on the thermometer, as overheating can cause the mixture to degrade.
As the wax melts, add the Crisco to the mixture, stirring continuously with a heat-resistant spatula or spoon. The stirring motion helps to distribute the Crisco evenly throughout the wax, creating a homogeneous blend. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container to prevent any clumps or unmixed portions. The mixture should become smooth and fully combined, with no visible traces of Crisco remaining. This process can take several minutes, depending on the amount of wax and Crisco being used.
While stirring, maintain the temperature at a steady 185°F. If the temperature drops below this point, increase the heat slightly to bring it back up. Conversely, if the temperature exceeds 185°F, remove the container from the heat source and let it cool down before resuming heating. The goal is to keep the mixture at a consistent temperature, allowing the wax and Crisco to meld together perfectly. This attention to detail ensures a high-quality candle with optimal burning characteristics.
As you near the end of the melting and combining process, take a moment to inspect the mixture. It should be smooth, uniform, and free of any lumps or inconsistencies. If you notice any issues, continue stirring and heating until the desired consistency is achieved. Once the wax and Crisco are fully blended, remove the container from the heat source and let it sit for a few minutes. This brief resting period allows the mixture to cool slightly, making it ready for the next step in the candle-making process: adding fragrance and pouring into containers. By following these instructions carefully, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful, long-lasting candles with Crisco.
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Add Fragrance/Dye: Incorporate fragrance oil (1 oz per pound) and dye chips carefully
When adding fragrance and dye to your Crisco candle, precision and timing are key. Begin by ensuring your melted Crisco mixture has cooled to around 180°F to 190°F before incorporating any additives. This temperature range is ideal because it allows the fragrance oil and dye to blend evenly without evaporating or separating. Measure your fragrance oil carefully, using the recommended ratio of 1 ounce of fragrance oil per pound of Crisco. Pour the fragrance oil directly into the melted mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure it is fully incorporated. Avoid over-stirring, as this can introduce air bubbles that may affect the candle’s appearance and burn quality.
Next, add the dye chips to achieve your desired color. Start with a small amount, as dye chips are highly concentrated, and you can always add more if needed. Crush the dye chips into a fine powder before adding them to the mixture to ensure they dissolve completely. Stir the mixture gently until the color is uniform, checking the shade against a white surface to gauge the intensity. If you’re aiming for a specific color, add the dye chips gradually, as the final color may darken slightly as the candle cools and sets.
It’s important to work quickly but methodically when adding fragrance and dye, as the mixture will begin to thicken as it cools. If the mixture cools too much, reheat it slightly to maintain a pourable consistency, but avoid exceeding 200°F to prevent the fragrance oil from burning off. Once the fragrance and dye are fully incorporated, allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before pouring it into your prepared containers or molds. This brief cooling period helps prevent the fragrance and dye from settling unevenly at the bottom of the container.
For those experimenting with layered or multi-colored candles, add fragrance and dye separately to each layer. Prepare individual batches of the Crisco mixture, cooling each to the appropriate temperature before adding the desired fragrance and dye. Pour each layer carefully, allowing it to set partially before adding the next to prevent colors from blending unintentionally. This technique requires patience but allows for creative and visually striking candle designs.
Finally, always test your fragrance and dye combinations before making a large batch. Some fragrances may react differently with Crisco or certain dyes, affecting the scent throw or color stability. Conduct a small trial run to ensure the final product meets your expectations. Properly measuring and incorporating fragrance oil and dye chips will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your Crisco candles but also ensure a consistent and enjoyable burn experience.
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Pour and Set: Center wicks in containers, pour mixture, let cool 24 hours undisturbed
Once you’ve prepared your Crisco-based candle mixture, the next critical step is the Pour and Set process. Begin by preparing your containers. Ensure they are clean, dry, and at room temperature to prevent cracking or uneven cooling. Place a wick in the center of each container, using a wick sticker or a small amount of melted wax to secure the base of the wick to the bottom. For added stability, wrap the top of the wick around a pencil or skewer and rest it across the container’s rim to keep the wick centered as you pour.
With your wicks in place, carefully pour the melted Crisco mixture into the containers. Pour slowly and steadily to avoid splashing or creating air bubbles. Leave about ¼ inch of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during cooling and to ensure the candle burns properly. If any bubbles form on the surface, gently tap the container against a flat surface or use a toothpick to pop them. Aim for a smooth, even surface, as this will be the top of your finished candle.
After pouring, let the candles cool undisturbed for 24 hours. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth finish and proper hardening. Avoid moving or disturbing the containers during this time, as it can cause the wax to shift or the wick to become off-center. Place the containers in a draft-free area at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, to ensure even cooling. The Crisco mixture will gradually solidify, and you may notice it becoming opaque as it sets.
During the cooling process, the wick may shift slightly, so check it after the first hour and gently adjust if necessary. However, minimize handling to prevent imperfections in the candle’s surface. As the mixture cools, it may shrink slightly, creating a dip around the wick. This is normal and can be fixed later by reheating a small amount of the Crisco mixture and adding a top-up layer once the candle is fully set.
After 24 hours, your candles should be completely hardened and ready for use. Trim the wick to about ¼ inch before lighting to ensure a clean, even burn. The Pour and Set process is straightforward but requires patience and attention to detail to achieve professional-looking results. With Crisco as the base, your candles will have a unique, creamy texture and a long burn time, making the effort well worth it.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Crisco (vegetable shortening) can be used as a base for making candles. It melts easily and can be combined with wax or used on its own for a natural, non-toxic option.
You’ll need Crisco, candle wicks, a double boiler or microwave-safe container, fragrance oils (optional), and molds or heat-safe containers to pour the mixture into.
While Crisco can be used alone, adding wax (like soy or paraffin) improves the candle’s firmness and burn time. A 50/50 mix of Crisco and wax is a common ratio.
Add more wax to the mixture or use a smaller amount of Crisco. Additionally, storing the candles in a cool place and using thicker wicks can help slow down melting.
Yes, you can add candle dye or fragrance oils to Crisco candles. Stir in the color and scent after melting the Crisco and before pouring it into molds.
