Ben Carter
Pillar candles are a popular choice for home decor and special events, as they create a warm and inviting ambiance. They are tall, sturdy, and self-supporting, and come in a variety of heights, shapes, and colours. When setting up pillar candles, it is important to consider the size of the space and the desired atmosphere. For example, white pillar candles can be used for a classic and elegant look, while colourful candles can add a playful or dramatic touch. When arranging pillar candles, layering different heights can create a visually appealing and peaceful feeling. Additionally, combining pillar candles with other types of candles, such as tapers, can add interest and variety to your display. To ensure the safety of your guests and your home, always use a candle-safe holder and never leave pillar candles unattended while burning.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle type | Pillar |
| Use | Decoration, creating ambiance |
| Shape | Cylindrical, sculptural |
| Add-ons | Fragrance, dyes, micas, essential oils |
| Mold material | Silicone, metal, plastic |
| Mold size | 2" x 3", 2" x 6", 2" x 9", 3" x 3", 3" x 4", 3" x 6", 3" x 9", 3" x 12", 4" x 4", 4" x 6", 4" x 8" |
| Wax type | Soy, beeswax, mottling wax, IGI 4625 |
| Wax temperature | 170-200°F (76.7-93.3°C) |
| Wick type | Cotton |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right mould
Makesy offers moulds made with "super silicone," a soft and flexible material that is easy to work with. Before using a new mould, check for any residual oil from the manufacturing process and clean it with a small amount of mould cleaner or cooking spray on a paper towel. This ensures your candle will have a smooth and clean finish.
The type of wax you choose will also influence your mould selection. Pillar candles typically use denser wax for a longer burn, and a soy pillar blend is an excellent choice due to its formula for hardness and shrinkage, making it easy to release from the mould. If you're using a different type of wax, such as beeswax, ensure it's suitable for the mould you've selected.
When preparing your mould, cut the wick to the desired length, keeping in mind that it's better to have extra length than too little. You can attach the wick to the bottom of the mould using a wick sticker, hot glue, or by tying a knot and piercing a small hole in the centre of the mould. If you're using essential oils, remember to add them during the cooling phase to prevent them from burning off.
Finally, consider the size of your mould in relation to the setting where you plan to use the pillar candle. Common sizes include 2" x 3", 2" x 6", and 2" x 9" for intimate settings, while 4" diameter pillar candles are more suitable for very large and open spaces. Choose a mould that aligns with your intended use, and always follow safety precautions when working with hot wax.
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Preparing the mould
Before pouring the wax into the mould, it is important to clean the mould thoroughly to ensure the best results. This can be done using a small amount of mould cleaner on a paper towel or a cooking spray. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the wax is poured into the mould at the appropriate temperature, typically between 185-200 degrees Fahrenheit.
While the wax is melting, the mould can be prepared by cutting the wick to the desired length. It is recommended to cut the wick twice as long as the height of the candle and then attach it to the bottom of the mould using a wick sticker, hot glue, or by tying a knot and piercing a small hole in the centre of the mould for the wick to be pulled through. Cotton wicks are a good option as they are natural and burn clean.
To create a colourful design, dyes can be added to the wax before pouring it into the mould. A single colour can be added for a solid design, or multiple colours can be layered for a bold, colourful look. Fragrances can also be added to the wax, but it is important to allow the wax to cool first, typically to around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, to avoid losing potency.
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Melting the wax
Once you have chosen your wax, you need to cut it into smaller pieces that will fit into your melting vessel. This can be done using a putty knife or utility knife. Be careful not to cut yourself during this process. The wax can then be placed in a wax melter, double boiler, or a heat-resistant container inside a pot of water. If using a double boiler, be sure to adjust the temperature as needed and check that it does not cool down too much. The recommended pouring temperature for wax is between 185-200 degrees Fahrenheit.
While the wax is melting, you can prepare your moulds and wicks. Clean your moulds with a small amount of mould cleaner or cooking spray to ensure your candles have a smooth finish. Cut your wicks to the desired length, leaving enough extra length to leverage the candle out of the mould when it is ready. Attach the wick to the bottom of your mould using a wick sticker or hot glue.
If you are adding fragrance to your candle, it is important to add it during the cooling phase so that it doesn't lose potency. For conventional fragrances, the recommended pouring temperature is 180 degrees Fahrenheit. For essential oils, which are more fragile, cool the wax to 140 degrees Fahrenheit before adding to avoid burning off the scent.
Once your wax is melted and your moulds are prepared, you are ready to pour your wax and begin creating your pillar candle!
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Adding fragrance and colour
Pillar candles can be decorated in numerous ways to add fragrance and colour.
Adding Fragrance
When adding fragrance to your candles, it is important to use fragrance oils specifically formulated for candle use. While essential oils can be used in some contexts, they are not designed to be mixed into candle wax and can be a serious fire hazard. Fragrance oils can be purchased from reputable suppliers, and it is important to check that they are compatible with candle wax before use.
Adding Colour
Colour can be added to pillar candles in several ways. Firstly, dyes can be mixed with paraffin and added to the wax before pouring. This can be done with one colour for a solid design or with multiple colours for a more vibrant, layered effect. Alternatively, you can decorate the outside of your candle with paint, glitter, Epson salts, dried flowers, or ribbons.
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Setting and removing the candle
Preparing the Candle
Firstly, gather all the necessary materials, including soy wax, essential oils for fragrance, a pillar mold, and a candle wick. Place the wax in a wax melter or double boiler and heat it until it is completely melted. If you want to add fragrance, allow the wax to cool to around 140°F before gently stirring in the oils. This temperature is crucial for essential oils as they are more fragile than conventional fragrance oils.
Setting the Candle
Once the wax is melted and fragranced (if desired), it's time to prepare the mold. Cut the wick to the desired length, leaving enough so that you have leverage to remove the candle later. A good rule of thumb is to cut the wick to twice the height of the candle. Pierce a small hole in the centre of the bottom of the mold, and push the wick through. You can use a wick sticker or hot glue to secure the wick to the bottom of the mold.
Now, you can slowly pour the wax into the mold. Be cautious during this step to avoid spills and burns. Pouring too quickly can cause bubbles to form, so take your time. If you are new to pillar candles, try the sealed mold method: pour about an inch of hot wax into the mold and wait a few seconds to ensure it is not leaking. If there is no leakage, continue pouring slowly.
Removing the Candle
After filling the mold, there should be some wax left over. This will be needed for the second pour. As the wax starts to set, create relief holes to release air pockets that form as the wax cools and shrinks. Poke the holes with a skewer, being careful not to hit the side of the mold. Once the candle is fully set, remove the wick bar, and reheat the leftover wax to a slightly higher temperature than your original pour. This second pour ensures the candle is fully formed and releases easily from the mold.
Finally, allow the candle to cool completely. You can use the freezer to help release the candle from the mold, especially if you are using a metal mold. Silicone molds are generally easier to remove, and you can peel them away from the candle. Be careful not to pull too hard on the wick when removing the candle, as it may break. Trim the wick to 1/4" length, and your pillar candle is now ready for use!
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Frequently asked questions
You will need soy wax, essential oils for fragrance, a pillar mold, and a candle wick. You can experiment with different types of waxes, such as beeswax, and fragrances.
First, place the wax in a wax melter or double boiler and heat until completely melted. If adding fragrance, allow the wax to cool before stirring in the oils. Prepare the molds by cutting a length of wick, twice as long as the height of the candle, and tying a knot on one end. Pierce a small hole through the center of the bottom of the mold and push the wick through. Slowly pour the wax into the mold.
Pillar candles are tall and sturdy and can stand upright without a container. They come in different heights and shapes. When setting up pillar candles, consider layering candles of different heights to create a warm and peaceful feeling.
