Tyler Brooks
Rendering fat for candles is a simple process that has been used since before recorded time. It involves removing impurities from animal fats to create tallow, which can then be formed into candles. Any animal fat can be used, from deer and elk to pork and beef, and the rendering process can be done at home with minimal equipment. The fat is melted down, strained, and then cooled to create tallow, which can be poured into containers with wicks to make candles. Rendering fat is a great way to make use of leftover fats and create emergency lighting or unique gifts.
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What You'll Learn
Choose a fat source: animal fat, coconut oil, olive oil, etc
Animal fat, coconut oil, and olive oil can all be used to make candles. However, there are some key differences between these fat sources that you should consider when choosing which one to use.
Animal fat has been used as fuel since before recorded time. Any animal fat will do, including pork fat, beef fat, lamb fat, lard, fish oil, and fowl fat. Animal fats are high in saturated fats and monounsaturated fats, and they are a source of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and K. However, they are also extremely calorie-dense. Animal fats have a high smoke point, making them suitable for high-temperature dishes, and they can bring great savory flavors to dishes.
Coconut oil is a popular cooking oil that has gained popularity due to its health benefits. It is high in saturated fats, so it should be used in small quantities. Coconut oil has a high smoke point and a strong flavor, making it suitable for sautéing and roasting. It also contains medium-chain fatty acids, which make it appropriate for baking.
Olive oil is another popular cooking oil that is known for its health benefits. It is an unsaturated fat and has higher levels of monounsaturated fats than coconut oil, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve heart health. Olive oil also contains polyphenols, which can reduce inflammation and may protect against age-related brain function decline. However, olive oil can turn bad faster than coconut oil and may produce more soot. It also has a lower melting point than coconut oil, which may affect the texture of the candle.
When choosing a fat source for candle making, consider the availability of the fat source, the desired burn time and texture of the candle, and the flavor and aroma you want to achieve. Animal fat and coconut oil have higher smoke points and may be better suited for candles that need to burn for extended periods, while olive oil may be preferred for its health benefits and ability to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Prepare the fat: trim off skin, tissue, and non-fat material
Rendering fat is the process of removing impurities to create tallow, which can then be used to make candles. The first step in rendering fat is to prepare the fat by trimming off as much skin, tissue, and non-fat material as possible. This can be done by partially freezing the fat, which makes it easier to handle and trim. If you are using fat from a butcher, you may not be able to select fat from specific areas, so simply choose the hardest sections of fat available.
Once you have trimmed the fat, cut it into small pieces. The smaller the pieces are, the faster the rendering process will be. You can cut the fat manually or use a food processor to pulse it into smaller pieces. Aim for a consistency similar to ground beef. This step ensures that the fat melts evenly and efficiently during the rendering process.
After trimming and cutting the fat, you can choose between dry rendering and wet rendering. Dry rendering involves placing the cut pieces of fat in a crockpot, stockpot, or skillet and heating them slowly over low to medium-low heat without adding water. This method ensures that there is no water remaining in the finished product, preventing the candles from going rancid prematurely. It is the preferred method of many homesteaders.
Wet rendering involves cooking the fat in water, which can be done by boiling or frying. For example, when rendering bacon fat, you can cook the bacon in water and then separate the fat after the water cools, or you can fry the bacon until most of the fat is rendered and then pour it into a container. Keep in mind that the presence of water can affect the final product and may require additional straining to prevent premature rancidity.
Rendering fat is a simple process that transforms animal fat into a useful resource for candle-making. By taking the time to carefully prepare the fat by trimming off skin, tissue, and non-fat material, you can ensure a higher-quality end product.
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Render the fat: melt it down and remove impurities
Rendering fat is the process of removing impurities from fat to create tallow. The rendering process involves melting the fat, which allows for the removal of impurities that would otherwise interfere with the efficient burning of the candle.
First, partially freeze the fat to make it easier to handle. Then, trim off as much tissue, skin, and other non-fat material as possible. The more meat you can remove at this stage, the fewer impurities will be left to strain out later. Cut the trimmed fat into small pieces, or pulse it in a food processor to speed up the rendering process. The smaller the pieces of fat are before heating, the faster the rendering will be.
Next, decide whether to dry or wet render the fat. To dry render, place the cut pieces of fat in a crockpot, stockpot, or skillet and slowly heat them over low to medium-low heat without adding water. This eliminates any risk of water remaining in the finished product, which could cause the candles to go rancid prematurely. This is the preferred method of many homesteaders. Alternatively, you can wet render the fat by cooking it in water and then separating the fat after the water cools.
As the fat melts, it will start to hiss and spit. This is the fat releasing its impurities, such as water and tissue that weren't trimmed away earlier. Small pieces, sometimes called "cracklings," will float to the top. Carefully remove these with a slotted spoon and either discard them or enjoy them as a salty snack. Other impurities will sink to the bottom of the pan and will need to be strained out later.
Once all the fat is melted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Then, strain it through a cheesecloth-lined colander before it cools and thickens. After the tallow is fully strained, you can begin making your candles.
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Prepare the wick: use cotton string or a shoelace
When preparing the wick for your candle, it's important to use the right material. Cotton string or a shoelace made from natural fibres is an ideal choice. You can easily find cotton string in craft stores or online. If you're using a shoelace, make sure it's made from 100% cotton to ensure it burns effectively. Avoid using synthetic materials for the wick, as they may release toxic fumes when burned.
For this project, cut a piece of cotton string or shoelace that is approximately twice the height of your container. This will allow for some trimming after the candle is formed. You can also trim the wick as it burns down to ensure a consistent flame height. It is important to note that the thickness of the wick will influence the quality of the candle's burn. A thicker wick will produce a larger flame and faster burn, while a thinner wick will result in a smaller flame and slower burn.
To prepare the wick, tie one end of the cotton string or shoelace securely to a pencil or thin stick. This will serve as a support to keep the wick centred in the candle. You can also use two pencils or sticks to create a bridge across the container, with the wick suspended in the middle. This technique helps to ensure the wick remains straight and upright.
If you're using a shoelace, you might need to trim the ends to separate the strands and create a wick with the desired thickness. You can twist the strands together to form a thicker wick or separate them further for a thinner wick, depending on your preference. This step allows you to customise the wick to your desired thickness and burning properties.
Once your wick is prepared, you can proceed with the next steps of making your candle. Remember to adjust the wick as needed during the candle-making process to ensure it remains centred and secure.
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Container selection: use a heat-tolerant container, e.g. a can or jar
Rendering fat for candles requires heat, so it's important to select a container that can withstand high temperatures. Avoid plastic containers, as they will melt. Instead, opt for a heat-tolerant container, such as a can or jar.
Aluminium cans are a good option, as they can withstand high temperatures without melting or breaking. You can use an aluminium pop can, as suggested by Instructables, or a can of a different material. If you choose to use a can, cut off the top and suspend your wick in the centre. You can also use a can to mould and cool your candle after the rendering process.
Glass jars, such as canning jars, are another suitable option for heat tolerance. They can withstand high temperatures and are readily available. It is recommended to use pint or half-pint jars, depending on the size of your candle.
You can also use a crockpot, stockpot, skillet, or Dutch oven to render the fat. These containers are suitable for heating the fat and removing impurities. However, keep in mind that you will need to pour the rendered fat into a different container for moulding and cooling unless you use a shallow pan.
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Frequently asked questions
Any animal fat can be used, such as deer, cow, goat, elk, bear, or even bacon fat.
You can get fat from your local butcher, or if you hunt or have livestock, you can source it yourself.
You will need a heat-tolerant container, such as a crockpot, stockpot, skillet, or shallow pan. You will also need a slotted spoon, a strainer, and a deep pan lined with butcher paper.
First, trim the fat to remove as much tissue, skin, and non-fat material as possible. Then, cut the fat into small pieces and place them in your chosen container. Heat the fat slowly over low to medium-low heat, being careful not to burn it. As the fat melts, impurities will be released, which you can skim off the top and remove with a slotted spoon. Once all the fat is melted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Then, strain the fat through a cheesecloth-lined colander before it solidifies.
Once your fat has been rendered and strained, you can proceed with the candle-making process. You will need containers, wicks, and twist ties to secure the wicks in place. Pour the melted fat into your containers, add the wicks, and allow the fat to cool and solidify.
