Tyler Brooks
Making candles with shortening is a creative and cost-effective alternative to traditional wax-based candles. Shortening, a common kitchen staple, can be transformed into a versatile candle-making material with the addition of a wick and optional fragrance or color. This method is particularly appealing for those seeking a simpler, more accessible DIY project, as it eliminates the need for specialized candle wax and equipment. By melting shortening and carefully pouring it into a container with a wick, you can create unique, customizable candles that burn cleanly and efficiently. Whether you're looking to experiment with candle-making or simply want to repurpose household items, using shortening offers an innovative and eco-friendly approach to crafting your own candles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Base Ingredient | Shortening (vegetable-based, like Crisco) |
| Wax Alternative | Shortening acts as a substitute for traditional candle wax |
| Melting Point | Approximately 115°F (46°C) |
| Wick Material | Cotton wick (pre-waxed or primed) |
| Container | Heat-resistant glass or metal container |
| Fragrance | Optional: essential oils or candle fragrance oils |
| Color | Optional: candle dye or food coloring (oil-based) |
| Ratio (Shortening to Fragrance) | 16 oz shortening : 1 oz fragrance oil (typical) |
| Cooling Time | 4-6 hours (until fully solidified) |
| Burn Time | Varies (shorter than traditional wax candles) |
| Advantages | Inexpensive, readily available, easy to work with |
| Disadvantages | Lower melting point, shorter burn time, may produce more soot |
| Safety Precautions | Use double boiler for melting, avoid overheating, keep away from flammable materials |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry place to prevent melting |
| Reusability | Can be remelted and repurposed |
| Environmental Impact | Not eco-friendly (petroleum-based shortening) |
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What You'll Learn
- Gather Supplies: Wax, shortening, wicks, containers, thermometer, double boiler, stirring tools, fragrance, dye
- Melt Wax & Shortening: Combine wax and shortening in double boiler, heat to 185°F
- Add Fragrance & Dye: Stir in fragrance oil and candle dye until fully blended
- Prepare Containers: Secure wicks in containers using glue dots or tape for stability
- Pour & Cool: Pour mixture into containers, let cool overnight, trim wicks before use
Gather Supplies: Wax, shortening, wicks, containers, thermometer, double boiler, stirring tools, fragrance, dye
To begin your candle-making journey with shortening, you’ll need to gather all the essential supplies. Start with wax, which will be the primary material for your candles. Paraffin wax or soy wax works well when combined with shortening. Next, you’ll need shortening, such as vegetable shortening, which helps the candle burn more evenly and extends its life. Ensure you have wicks that are appropriate for the size of your candles—cotton wicks are a popular choice. Choose containers that are heat-resistant, like glass jars or metal tins, to hold your candles safely. A thermometer is crucial for monitoring the temperature of the wax and shortening mixture, ensuring it doesn’t get too hot and lose its properties.
A double boiler is essential for melting the wax and shortening safely, preventing direct heat from burning the mixture. If you don’t have one, you can create a makeshift version using a large pot and a heat-safe bowl. Stirring tools, such as silicone spatulas or wooden spoons, are needed to mix the ingredients thoroughly without scratching your containers. For personalization, gather fragrance oils to add a pleasant scent to your candles—opt for scents that complement each other. Additionally, dye can be used to color your candles, whether in chip form or liquid, ensuring it’s specifically designed for candle-making to avoid affecting the burn quality.
When selecting your wax, consider the type and quantity based on the number of candles you plan to make. Shortening should be added in a ratio of about 1 part shortening to 4 parts wax, but adjust based on your preference for burn time and consistency. Wicks should be pre-waxed and centered properly in the containers using wick stickers or a small amount of melted wax to hold them in place. Choose containers that match the aesthetic of your candles, ensuring they are clean and dry before use. The thermometer should be clipped to the side of your double boiler for easy monitoring, ideally with a range up to 200°F (93°C).
Your double boiler setup should allow for even heating without hot spots. If using a makeshift version, ensure the bowl fits snugly on the pot without touching the water. Stirring tools should be heat-resistant to avoid melting or warping during the process. When adding fragrance oils, follow the recommended usage rate, typically 6-10% of the total wax weight, to achieve a strong but not overpowering scent. Dye should be added gradually, stirring until the desired color is achieved, keeping in mind that the color will lighten slightly as the candle cools.
Finally, organize your workspace with all supplies within reach before starting. Lay out your wax, shortening, wicks, containers, thermometer, double boiler, stirring tools, fragrance, and dye in a logical order to streamline the process. Having everything prepared ensures a smooth and efficient candle-making experience, allowing you to focus on creating beautiful, fragrant candles with the unique addition of shortening.
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Melt Wax & Shortening: Combine wax and shortening in double boiler, heat to 185°F
To begin the process of making candles with shortening, you'll need to melt the wax and shortening together. This step is crucial in ensuring that your candle mixture is smooth, consistent, and free of lumps. Start by gathering your materials: a double boiler, a thermometer, and your chosen wax and shortening. The double boiler method is ideal for melting wax and shortening because it provides indirect heat, reducing the risk of overheating or burning the mixture. Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler with water, making sure it doesn't touch the bottom of the top pot, and bring it to a simmer.
Next, combine the wax and shortening in the top pot of the double boiler. The general rule of thumb is to use a 3:1 ratio of wax to shortening, but you can adjust this based on your desired candle consistency and burn time. For example, if you're using 3 cups of wax, add 1 cup of shortening. As the water in the bottom pot heats up, the wax and shortening will begin to melt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir the mixture gently, ensuring that the wax and shortening are fully combined. This process may take some time, so be patient and avoid rushing it by turning up the heat.
As you melt the wax and shortening, monitor the temperature using a thermometer. The goal is to heat the mixture to 185°F (85°C). This temperature is essential because it ensures that the wax and shortening are fully melted and combined, but not so hot that it damages the mixture or causes it to smoke. Keep a close eye on the thermometer, as overheating can ruin your candle mixture. If you don't have a thermometer, you can also look for visual cues, such as a clear, smooth mixture with no visible lumps or debris.
While melting the wax and shortening, take the opportunity to prepare your candle containers or molds. Make sure they're clean and dry, and consider adding a wick to each container. You can use a glue dot or a small amount of melted wax to secure the wick in place. If you're using molds, apply a light coating of mold release or cooking spray to make it easier to remove the finished candles. By preparing your containers or molds in advance, you'll be ready to pour the melted wax and shortening mixture as soon as it reaches the desired temperature.
As the wax and shortening approach 185°F, you may notice that the mixture becomes more fluid and easy to stir. At this point, give the mixture a final stir to ensure that it's fully combined and smooth. If you notice any lumps or debris, continue heating and stirring until they disappear. Once the mixture reaches 185°F, remove it from the heat source and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. This brief cooling period helps to prevent the mixture from being too hot when you add any fragrance oils or dyes, which can be sensitive to high temperatures. With your melted wax and shortening mixture ready, you're now prepared to move on to the next step in making your candles.
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Add Fragrance & Dye: Stir in fragrance oil and candle dye until fully blended
Once your shortening and wax mixture has cooled slightly but is still in a liquid state, it’s time to add fragrance and dye to personalize your candle. Begin by selecting a fragrance oil that complements the natural scent of the shortening or choose one that aligns with your desired aroma. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of fragrance oil per pound of shortening and wax mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can introduce air bubbles that may affect the candle’s appearance and burn quality. The fragrance oil should blend seamlessly into the mixture, leaving no streaks or separation.
Next, incorporate candle dye to achieve your desired color. Candle dye is highly concentrated, so start with a small amount—typically a few drops or a toothpick dipped in dye—and gradually increase until you reach the desired shade. Stir the dye into the mixture slowly, ensuring it disperses evenly without clumping. If using block dye, melt it separately before adding it to the mixture for smoother incorporation. The goal is to achieve a consistent color throughout the candle, so take your time and adjust as needed.
As you stir in the fragrance oil and dye, monitor the temperature of the mixture. It should remain warm enough to keep the shortening and wax in a liquid state but not so hot that it evaporates the fragrance oil or causes the dye to break down. Ideally, the mixture should be around 180°F to 190°F during this process. Use a thermometer to ensure precision and adjust the heat source accordingly. Stirring should be steady and continuous to prevent the fragrance and dye from settling at the bottom or pooling unevenly.
After adding the fragrance and dye, let the mixture sit for a minute to allow any trapped air bubbles to rise to the surface. You can gently tap the container on a flat surface to help release bubbles. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, professional finish in your final candle. Once the mixture appears uniform and free of bubbles, it’s ready for the next step in the candle-making process.
Remember, the key to successfully adding fragrance and dye is patience and attention to detail. Rushing this step can result in uneven color, weak scent throw, or imperfections in the candle’s texture. Take your time to ensure the fragrance oil and dye are fully blended, creating a cohesive and visually appealing candle that smells as good as it looks. This personalized touch will make your shortening-based candle truly unique.
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Prepare Containers: Secure wicks in containers using glue dots or tape for stability
Before you begin melting shortening and pouring your candle, proper wick placement is crucial for a successful burn. This step ensures your wick stays centered and upright, preventing tunneling and uneven burning. Here's how to prepare your containers and secure the wicks using glue dots or tape:
Choose the Right Containers: Select heat-resistant containers suitable for candle making. Glass jars, tins, or ceramic containers work well. Ensure they are clean and dry before proceeding.
Prepare the Wicks: Cut your wick to the appropriate length, allowing for about ½ inch to extend above the container's rim once the candle is finished. If using pre-tabbed wicks, ensure the metal tab is securely attached.
Positioning the Wick: Place a small dab of glue dot or a piece of double-sided tape on the bottom center of your container. For larger containers, you might need two glue dots or pieces of tape positioned in an "X" shape for added stability. Gently press the metal tab of your wick onto the glue or tape, ensuring it's centered and straight. Hold it firmly for a few seconds to allow the adhesive to set.
Alternative Method: If you don't have glue dots or tape, you can create a simple wick holder. Cut a small piece of cardboard or thick paper slightly larger than the container's opening. Poke a hole in the center, thread the wick through, and then secure the cardboard to the container's rim with glue or tape. This method keeps the wick centered during pouring.
Maintaining Wick Position: Once the wick is secured, it's important to keep it in place while pouring the melted shortening mixture. You can use a pencil or a skewer laid across the container's opening, with the wick resting in the center, to prevent it from shifting.
Remember, a properly centered wick is essential for a clean and even burn. Taking the time to secure it correctly will ensure your shortening candles burn beautifully and efficiently.
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Pour & Cool: Pour mixture into containers, let cool overnight, trim wicks before use
Once your candle mixture of shortening, wax, and fragrance is fully melted and combined, it’s time to move on to the pouring and cooling stage. Carefully pour the hot mixture into your prepared containers, ensuring they are heat-resistant and stable. Use a ladle or heat-safe pitcher for precision, and leave a small gap (about ¼ inch) at the top of each container to allow for wick trimming and any potential expansion during cooling. If you notice any air bubbles forming on the surface, gently tap the sides of the container or use a skewer to pop them for a smoother finish.
After pouring, let the candles cool undisturbed at room temperature overnight. Avoid moving or disturbing them during this time, as the mixture needs to set evenly. As the candles cool, you may notice the center sinking slightly—this is normal and can be fixed later with a second pour if desired. Cover the containers loosely with a towel to keep dust or debris from settling on the surface while they cool. Patience is key here, as rushing the cooling process can lead to cracks or uneven surfaces.
Once the candles have fully cooled and solidified, it’s time to trim the wicks. Use scissors or wick trimmers to cut the wicks to about ¼ inch above the wax surface. This ensures a clean, even burn when you light the candle. If the wick has shifted during cooling, gently reposition it to the center before trimming. Proper wick length is crucial for safety and optimal performance, so don’t skip this step.
Before using your candles, inspect them for any imperfections. If you notice sunken areas or uneven surfaces, you can remelt a small amount of the shortening and wax mixture and carefully pour it into the affected areas to create a smooth finish. Allow this second pour to cool completely before trimming the wick again. Your candles are now ready to use, enjoy, or gift!
Remember, the pour and cool stage is where your candles take their final shape, so take your time and handle the process with care. Proper cooling ensures a professional-looking result, while trimming the wicks guarantees a safe and enjoyable burning experience. With these steps completed, you’ve successfully made candles using shortening, combining creativity with practicality.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, shortening can be used as a base for making candles. It’s a vegetable-based fat that melts and solidifies well, making it a viable alternative to traditional wax. However, it may not burn as cleanly or last as long as paraffin or soy wax.
Pure, unflavored vegetable shortening (like Crisco) works best. Avoid shortenings with additives or flavors, as they can affect the candle’s performance and scent.
Melt the shortening in a double boiler, add a wick to a heat-safe container, and pour the melted shortening in. Allow it to cool and solidify completely before use. Optionally, add essential oils for scent and colorants for visual appeal.
