Maddie James
Removing a pillar candle from its mould can be a tricky process, but it's crucial to achieving a professional finish. The type of mould you're using will determine the best method for removing your candle. Silicone moulds, for example, can be heavy-handed and thick, allowing for some flexibility when removing your candle, whereas plastic moulds may require a different approach. Regardless of the mould type, it's important to let the wax cool completely before attempting to remove the candle. This can take a few hours, but it's recommended to wait a full day to ensure the wax has fully hardened. If you're having trouble releasing your candle from the mould, you can try using a releasing agent or lubricant, or placing the mould in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help the wax withdraw from the sides.
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What You'll Learn
Use lubricants/release sprays to prevent sticking
When making pillar candles, the wax you choose is crucial for achieving a clean release from the mould. However, using lubricants or release sprays can also help prevent your candles from sticking to the mould.
Release Sprays
Release sprays are aerosol sprays specifically designed for candle-making. They create a thin, even layer of the release agent on the mould's surface, making it easier for the candle to slide out once it's set. These sprays function similarly to non-stick cooking sprays.
To apply a release spray, first, ensure the mould is free of any grease, oil, or dirt residues. Then, shake the can thoroughly and hold it 8 to 12 inches from the mould. Spray the release agent as finely as possible, covering all angles of the mould. Wait for about 2 to 3 minutes, and your mould is ready for pouring!
Release Agents or Oils
You can also use certain oils or substances, such as vegetable oil, coconut oil, or mineral oil, as release agents. These natural release agents create a barrier between the wax and the mould, making it easier to remove the candle once it has cooled and solidified.
To use these release agents, rub a thin layer of oil onto the inside of the mould with a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid scratches. Stand the mould upside down on a piece of newspaper to catch any drips.
Paraffin Wax
Some candle makers use paraffin wax as a release agent. A thin layer of melted paraffin wax is brushed onto the interior of the mould, creating a barrier that helps the candle separate cleanly from the mould.
When using any type of release agent, it's important to use the correct amount. Test it on a small area of the mould first to ensure compatibility with your specific mould and wax combination.
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Flip the mould for even cooling
When making pillar candles, it is important to flip the mould periodically to ensure even cooling. This technique helps to prevent the candle from cracking due to uneven temperature changes.
Firstly, allow the candle to cool to room temperature before attempting to remove it from the mould. This process may take a few hours or even a full day, as wax needs to fully harden and maintain its shape. During this time, you can flip the mould every 30 minutes to ensure even cooling. By doing so, you prevent drastic temperature changes that can cause the candle to crack.
While flipping the mould, be sure to handle it with care. Place it on a flat surface that will not be damaged by the warmth of the mould. Avoid banging the mould against a hard surface, as this could damage the candle. Instead, gently tap on the bottom of the mould to loosen the candle.
If you are using a silicone mould, you may find that it needs to be peeled away from the candle. Metal moulds, on the other hand, may require placing the entire setup in the freezer before removal to make it easier to remove the candle without damaging its shape.
By following these steps and being patient during the cooling process, you can ensure that your pillar candle cools evenly and is successfully removed from the mould without any cracks or damage.
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Remove the mould sealer
Removing the mould sealer is the first step in removing a candle from its mould. The type of mould sealer you are using will determine the best method for removing it.
If you are using a putty-type sealer, this will be moulded around the base of the mould to seal the hole. These types of sealers are usually pressed into a disk shape and stuck to the bottom of the mould. Removing this kind of sealer is as simple as peeling it off, much like sticky tack.
If you are using a magnetic mould sealer, this will be a simple metal sheet that is magnetically charged. It will snap onto the bottom of the mould to prevent wax from leaking out. To remove this type of sealer, simply pull it off. If you are using a plastic or aluminium mould, you likely aren't using this type of sealer.
If you are using a rubber mould, the wick may be wrapped around a wick bar at the bottom of the mould. If so, you will need to unwrap the wick before removing the candle. Rubber mould plugs are shaped like spinning tops, with a large base and a tapered tip. To remove them, simply grab the base and pull them out.
If you are using a silicone mould, you will need to use a mould release spray. Not all mould release sprays are compatible with silicone moulds, so double-check your materials before use. You can also experiment with release slits, which are useful for mould shapes prone to wax breakage or sticking during the removal process. Cut a release slit around the problem area with a sharp blade or knife, then use duct tape to join it back together before pouring in the wax. Once the wax is completely cool, loosen the mould and then gently begin peeling it away, starting with the release slit.
If your candle is stuck, you can try placing the mould in the refrigerator for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process and help the wax set and separate from the mould. Make sure the mould has cooled to room temperature before placing it in the fridge, and don't leave it in for more than 10 minutes, as the candle may crack.
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Use the freezer to help release
Freezing is an effective method to help release a pillar candle from its mould. However, it is important to be cautious and not leave the candle in the freezer for too long, as this can cause the candle to crack.
Firstly, ensure that the mould has cooled to room temperature before placing it in the freezer. This is crucial, as a drastic temperature change can cause the candle to crack. Allow the mould to cool completely, which may take several hours.
Once the mould has reached room temperature, place it in the freezer for five minutes. Then, take it out and attempt to remove the candle. If it still won't come out, return the mould to the freezer for another five minutes. Do not leave the mould in the freezer for more than 10 minutes in total, as this will likely cause the candle to crack.
If the candle still won't budge after the additional five minutes, you may need to try a different method, such as using boiling water. However, this may ruin the candle, so it should be a last resort.
Overall, using the freezer to help release a pillar candle from its mould can be effective, but it's important to be patient and cautious to avoid damaging the candle.
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Use boiling water to remove stuck candles
If your candle is stuck in its mould, you can try using boiling water to remove it. This method is suitable for metal moulds.
First, run some boiling water over the exterior of the mould for a few seconds. Then, pull hard on the candle's wick. The candle should slide out fairly easily. If the candle still doesn't move, place the mould, wax and all, into a metal dish filled with boiling water. After a few minutes, the candle should soften and you can retrieve it using a pair of tongs or a wooden spoon to avoid burning yourself.
Note that this process won't save your candle, but you can melt down the wax for use in your next attempt. You can also dry off and melt down the candle mass at a later stage.
If you are using a plastic mould, you can follow the same procedure but with hot, not boiling water. Consult the instructions that came with your moulds to check the correct temperatures as some plastic moulds are heat-resistant up to 110°C (230°F), but many start warping above 82°C (179.6°F).
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Frequently asked questions
First, let the wax cool completely before attempting to remove the candle. Then, slowly loosen the mold from the wax by gently pulling the mold apart, then peel the mold away from the wax. Take extra time and caution with any areas that feel particularly resistant.
Before pouring in the wax, lubricate the interior of the mold with a releasing agent or a mold release spray.
Try placing the mold in the refrigerator for up to 10 minutes. The wax will shrink and withdraw from the sides of the mold, making it easier to remove.
Place the mold upside down on a soft surface, like a pillow, and gently tap on the bottom. If this doesn't work, try placing the mold in the freezer for up to 10 minutes.
As a last resort, place the mold in a metal dish filled with boiling water. After a few minutes, the candle will soften and you can retrieve it with tongs or a wooden spoon. However, this will destroy the candle, but you can reuse the wax for your next attempt.
