Candle making is an art form that has been around for centuries, starting around AD 200 as a necessity, to becoming a popular hobby today. Dive into this ancient art by making your own candles at home. Candles are very easy to make, beautiful to look at, and make great gifts. Follow these steps to make your own beautiful candle in your home.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Preparing the Wax Material to Melt
Step 1. Decide what type of wax material you will use to make the candle
There are several types of materials that you can choose from. Paraffin weighing 453.6 grams will yield about 591.5 ml of liquid wax. The same weight of soy wax will yield approximately 532.3 ml of liquid wax. The same weight of beeswax will yield about 473.2 ml of liquid wax.
- Paraffin is a traditional ingredient in candle making and is still a popular ingredient today. Paraffin is best used by beginners because it melts quickly, is inexpensive, and is easy to color or scent. It should be noted, however, that the chemicals emitted when paraffin is melted can be irritating to some people.
- Soy wax has recently become increasingly popular because it is easy to use, made from soybeans and easy to clean. This material is also environmentally friendly and renewable. Soy wax is also known to burn more slowly than other wax materials.
- Beeswax is a completely natural material and has the ability to purify air, but it's not great for scenting or coloring. Essential oils are generally suitable for adding to beeswax, but keep in mind that beeswax already has its own natural scent.
- You can also use used candles that have burned, or that have been partially used and melted. Using used candles is a great way to recycle candles. Just melt it as you would any other wax material (see Part Two).
Step 2. Protect your work area before starting
Unless you have a dedicated work area where you can work with wax without worry, use old newspapers, parchment paper, towels or washcloths to cover the surface you will be waxing on. Also have warm soapy water ready in case there is a candle spill.
Step 3. Cut or slice the wax material
Small pieces will melt faster than large pieces. By cutting into small pieces, you are ensuring that all of the wax will melt at the same time.
Step 4. Fill half a large or medium sized pot with water
Make sure the pan can accommodate a smaller container so that it resembles a double pot for melting the wax.
Method 2 of 3: Melting the Wax Material
Step 1. Place the wax pieces in a small saucepan
Turn on the heat source until the water in a large pot boils. The boiling water will slowly melt the wax.
Keep in mind that wax can be difficult to clean, so you may need to purchase an inexpensive, heat-resistant pan specifically for making candles
Step 2. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the wax material
You can buy a sugar thermometer or a wax thermometer at a cooking or craft store. If you don't have a sugar thermometer, you can also use a meat thermometer. Just keep in mind that wax may be difficult to clean.
- The paraffin should melt when it reaches a temperature between 50 and 60°C.
- The soy wax should melt when it reaches a temperature between 76.6 and 82.2°C.
- The beeswax should melt when it reaches approx. 62.7°C. You can continue to a higher temperature but do not exceed 79.4°C.
- Used wax should melt when it reaches around 85°C. Remove the wick using tongs.
Step 3. Add fragrance to your melted wax
The choice of fragrance is up to you. Fragrances such as essential oils can be purchased at a craft supply store near you. You should read the dosing instructions on the fragrance bottle first, rather than figuring out the amount to mix based on the scent of the fragrance you've dripped. Mix well.
Step 4. Add coloring agent
Food coloring is not suitable for use in candles because it is water based. Purchase an oil-based dye at a craft supply store. Usually you will find a special dye for candles as well. Read the directions on the bottle to find out the right amount to get the color you want. Add the dye drop by drop until you get the right color. Mix well.
Method 3 of 3: Printing Candles
Step 1. Prepare the wax mold
You can use cans, small glass jars, old teacups, or any other heat-resistant container. A can is the safest option, but if you have another heat-resistant container, you can use that too. Place the mold on a flat surface in your work area (such as on a baking tray or cutting board).
Step 2. Pour the melted wax into the mold
Pour slowly so as not to spill. Also make sure not to touch the wick so that it changes position or falls out of the mold. Pour to how full, it's up to you. The beeswax will shrink slightly as it cools, so take that into account when you pour it into the molds.
Step 3. Allow the wax to cool
It is best to let the wax cool for 24 hours, if possible. The longer your wax cools, the better the results will be.
- Paraffin wax should generally be allowed to cool for 24 hours.
- Soy wax generally takes 4 to 5 hours to cool.
- Beeswax generally takes 6 hours to cool, but if you're not in a hurry, it's best to refrigerate it overnight.
- If your candle is made from used wax, it's usually only necessary to let it cool for a few hours.
Step 4. Remove the wax from the mold and cut the end of the wick to about 6mm from the wax surface
This is done to limit the flame of the candle because a long wick will make the flame too large.
Step 5. Light the wick, light a candle, and enjoy your work
