Maddie James
Metal candle moulds are a great option for creating basic candle shapes with smooth sides. They are durable, relatively inexpensive, and have a long lifespan. Metal moulds are ideal for use with high-melting-point waxes, but they are not recommended for beeswax candles due to the difficulty of removing sticky wax from the mould. To plug a metal candle mould, you must first insert the wick through the hole in the bottom of the mould and secure it with a knot or wick tab. Then, seal the hole with a mould sealer, such as putty, sticky tack, or a magnetic sheet. After pouring in the wax and allowing it to cool, you can remove the mould sealer and gently pull out the candle. If the candle gets stuck, you can try warming the mould or using boiling water to soften the wax.
How to plug a metal candle mold
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mold type | Metal |
| Mold shape | Basic shapes with smooth sides |
| Wax type | High melting point waxes |
| Wick type | Square braid wicking |
| Mold sealer | Magnetic mold sealer, putty sealer, mold clay, glue, duct tape, or sticky tack |
| Wick bar | Metal bar that the wick is wrapped around |
| Candle removal | Gently pull the candle out of the mold from the top |
| Candle trimming | Trim the wick on the bottom and top of the candle |
| Seam removal | Trim the embossment from the seam with a bread knife |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right metal candle mould
Type of Wax
Different types of wax have varying melting points, so it is crucial to choose a mould that can withstand the temperature of the wax you plan to use. Metal moulds are generally suitable for high-melting-point waxes. If you intend to use beeswax, which has a high melting point, metal moulds are a good choice due to their durability and heat resistance. However, it's important to note that beeswax candles may be challenging to remove from metal moulds due to the stickiness of the wax.
Shape and Design
Metal candle moulds are typically used for creating basic shapes with smooth sides. They are ideal for making pillar candles or traditional designs. If you want to experiment with intricate details, textures, or complex shapes, other materials like silicone might be more suitable. Metal moulds are best for simple, elegant candles without intricate details.
Durability and Lifespan
Metal candle moulds are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care, metal moulds can last for a very long time. Some vintage metal candle moulds have even increased in value and are sought after by collectors. However, avoid using water to clean metal moulds as it can cause rust. Instead, use a heat gun or hair dryer to melt any remaining wax and wipe it out with a paper towel.
Cost
Metal candle moulds are relatively inexpensive compared to other options like silicone. This makes them a cost-effective choice, especially if you're just starting with candle-making or working within a budget.
Wick Compatibility
Ensure that the metal mould you choose is compatible with the type of wick you plan to use. The size and material of the wick should be appropriate for the mould and the type of candle you want to create. Consider using wick tabs, which are small metal discs that secure the wick in place and are easy to find in craft stores or online candle-making suppliers.
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Preparing the mould
Firstly, ensure your mould is clean and dry. This is an important step to guarantee that your candle will come out smoothly and without any unwanted residue. Use a clean paper towel, a lint-free cloth, or isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the mould.
Next, select an appropriate wick for your mould. Square braid wicking is a popular choice, and the size depends on the dimensions of your mould and the type of wax you plan to use. Slide the wick through the pre-drilled hole in the bottom of the mould, leaving a few extra inches at the end. Secure the wick with a wick bar, ensuring it is straight and stable. You can use candle mould clay, glue, or hot wax to secure the wick and prevent leakage. An easy option is to use pre-made wick tabs, which are small metal discs with an opening for the wick to be inserted and clamped closed.
Now, it's time to seal the mould. Use a mould sealer to seal the hole around the wick. Pull the wick up from the top of the mould so that the knot and sealer cover the hole completely. For added protection, cover the knot and sealer with duct tape and place the mould on a tray. Some moulds may use a rubber mould plug, which is shaped like a spinning top and fits into the hole at the bottom of the mould. Ensure it is pushed in firmly to prevent leaks.
Finally, you are ready to pour your wax. Heat the wax to the recommended temperature and gently stir in any fragrances or dyes if desired. Allow the wax to cool to the chosen pouring temperature, and then slowly and carefully pour it into your prepared mould. Avoid overfilling the mould, and be cautious not to pour over the edge.
By carefully following these steps, you will have a well-prepared metal candle mould, ready for the next stages of candle-making.
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Adding the wick
Prepare the Mold:
Before adding the wick, it is essential to prepare your metal mold correctly. First, lightly coat the interior surface of your mold with a thin layer of oil. Use a spray oil or a soft brush to ensure an even application, being careful not to overdo it. This step will help you remove the candle from the mold without causing any damage. If your mold has a removable base, remember to remove it before oiling to avoid any mess on the wick.
Choose the Right Wick:
Selecting the proper wick size for your metal mold is crucial. The wick should be long enough to fit your mold comfortably. For taller molds, consider using longer wicks, such as the 10" long LX wicks available in various sizes. Additionally, ensure that the wick is centred and straight within the mold to promote an even burn.
Secure the Wick:
There are several methods to secure the wick in your metal mold:
- If your mold has a pre-made hole, simply slide the wick through the hole, ensuring the tabbed end is sticking out beyond where your candle will end.
- For molds without a hole, you can use a skewer or a wicking needle to create a hole for the wick. Heat the needle or skewer before pushing it through to make a clean hole.
- Alternatively, you can use duct tape or wick stickers to secure the wick. Place the tape or sticker across the mold, ensuring no air pockets are present, and then smooth it out. Add another piece of tape perpendicular to the first for added security.
Finalize the Setup:
Once the wick is in place, ensure it is nice and straight. You can use a wick bar to help with this. Now your metal mold is ready for the wax! Remember to monitor the temperature of your wax and aim for around 80°C/176°F.
Adding a wick to a metal candle mold is a delicate process, but with careful preparation and the right tools, you can master this skill and unlock a world of creativity in candle-making.
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Pouring the wax
Now that you have selected your metal mould, it's time to pour the wax. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this:
First, ensure your mould is clean and dry. Take your wick and slide it through the hole in the bottom of the mould. You can use a slip knot, leaving a few inches of wick at the end. Secure the wick with a wick bar, making sure it is nice and straight. Then, take some mould sealer and seal the hole around the wick. Pull the wick up from the top of the mould so that the knot and sealer cover the hole. As an extra precaution, you can cover the knot and sealer with duct tape and place the mould on a tray to protect against any leakage.
Next, heat your wax to the recommended temperature. Once it has reached the desired pouring temperature, gently and slowly pour the wax into your prepared mould until it reaches the top, being careful not to pour over the edge. You can add fragrance and dye to the wax at this stage if desired.
While the wax is setting, check it every hour for the first three to four hours. If you notice a well forming around the wick, gently poke a hole in the surface of the congealed wax near the wick to release any air bubbles. Then, "refill the well" by gently and slowly pouring more melted wax at the desired pouring temperature into the well, ensuring the liquid wax doesn't go over the dried wax on the edges. Repeat this process as needed.
Finally, allow your candle to dry for 24 hours at room temperature. Once it is completely dry, remove the wick bar from the top and the mould sealer and sealing putty from the bottom. Gently pull the candle out of the mould from the top. Trim the wicks on the bottom and top of the candle as needed.
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Removing the candle from the mould
Removing a candle from its mould can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Here are some tips for removing a candle from a metal mould.
Firstly, ensure that the mould is completely cool before attempting to remove the candle. Metal moulds are great for creating basic shapes with smooth sides, but they can be tricky to remove the candle from. If you try to remove the candle before the wax has completely set, the surface of the candle may tear and crumble. It is also important to wait until the mould has cooled to room temperature before placing it in the fridge or freezer, as a drastic change in temperature could cause the candle to crack.
If your candle is stuck, try placing the mould in the freezer for five minutes. Take it out and try to remove the candle. If it still won't budge, place it back in the freezer for another five minutes. Do not leave the mould in the freezer for more than 10 minutes, as this will cause the candle to crack.
If the candle is still stuck, try running hot water over the exterior of the mould for a few seconds. Then, pull hard on the candle's wick. The candle should be easier to remove now. If it still doesn't move, place the mould, wax and all, in a metal dish filled with boiling water. After a few minutes, retrieve the candle with a pair of tongs or a wooden spoon. This process will destroy the candle, but you can melt down the wax for your next attempt.
If your mould has a seam down the side, you can trim the embossment from the seam with a bread knife, smoothing it down to the surface of the wax.
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Frequently asked questions
First, ensure your mold is clean and dry.
Slide the wick through the pre-drilled hole in the bottom of the mold. Tie the wick in a slip knot, leaving a few inches at the end.
Use mold sealer to seal the hole around the knot. Pull the wick up from the top of the mold so the knot and sealer cover the hole. You can also use duct tape for extra security.
Push the wick pin into the centre of the bottom of the mold and place the mold on a tray. Heat the wax to the recommended temperature, stir in fragrance and dye, and allow it to cool to the chosen pouring temperature.
Once the candle is completely dry, remove the wick bar from the top and the magnetized mold sealer and sealing putty from the bottom. Gently pull the candle out, and trim the wicks.
