The manufacture of candles is an art handed down over the course of time; born out of necessity around the third century, it has become a fairly popular hobby nowadays. Try your hand at this ancient art by making your own candles at home. Candles are simple to make, delightful to look at in the dark… and are the perfect gift to give to someone. Follow the steps below to make beautiful handmade candles.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare the Wax for Casting
Step 1. Decide which wax to use for your candles
There are several types of wax to choose from. 500 g of paraffin wax is equivalent to approximately 600 ml of liquid wax, 500 g of soy wax is equivalent to 500 ml of melted wax and 500 g of beeswax is equivalent to just over 450 ml of wax once liquefied.
- Paraffin wax is the most classic of the waxes used to make candles and remains by far the most popular. It is the most suitable for beginners, as it dissolves quickly, is inexpensive and is easy to color or perfume. However, it should be noted that some chemicals released during the melting of this wax can be irritating to some people.
- Soy wax is gaining popularity as it is easy to use, is made from seeds and is quite easy to clean. It is ecological and recyclable. Soy wax also has the advantage of burning slower than other types of wax.
- The beeswax is 100% natural and by burning it purifies the air; however, it does not preserve the aroma or color very well. Essential oils generally work quite well with beeswax but be aware that this type of wax already has a particularly pleasant scent of its own.
- You can also use old, deformed candles that are completely or partially worn. Using old candles is ideal for recycling the wax. Simply melt them like you would any other wax (see Part Two).
Step 2. Protect your countertop before starting
Unless you have an area of the house where you can work without having to take special precautions, spread out newspaper, paraffin paper or rags on the work surface. Keep warm, soapy water at hand in case of any liquid spills.
Step 3. Cut the wax into pieces or cut it into flakes
The smaller the pieces of wax are, the better they will blend. By mincing the wax you will also be sure that it melts evenly.
Step 4. Fill a saucepan or saucepan halfway with water
Put another smaller pot or saucepan inside where you will melt the wax.
Part 2 of 3: Melt the Wax
Step 1. Place the pieces or flakes of wax in the smaller pot
Raise the heat to boil the water. The boiling water will slowly heat the wax, melting it.
Keep in mind that wax can be quite difficult to clean; you might consider buying an inexpensive, heat-resistant pot to be used exclusively for making candles
Step 2. Use a thermometer to gauge the temperature of the wax
You can purchase a wax thermometer or a sugar thermometer at a kitchen or DIY store. If you don't have a sugar thermometer, you can also use a meat thermometer, but remember that it may be difficult to get the wax out of it later.
- Paraffin wax should be baked until it reaches 50-60 ° C.
- The soy wax should reach a temperature between 75 and 80 ° C.
- The beeswax should be melted until it reaches a temperature of around 60 degrees. You can also heat it more, but still not exceed 80 ° C.
- Old candles should be melted at a temperature of around 85 degrees. Remove the old wicks with tweezers.
Step 3. Perfume your candles
The kind of perfume depends on your tastes. Perfumed essences such as essential oils, for example, can be purchased at the herbalist's closest to you. To determine the dose you need, read the directions on the bottle instead of simply relying on your sense of smell. Remember to shake the container well before use.
Step 4. Add a color note
Food dyes are not good for candles, because they are water based. Buy oil paints at your trusted paint shop. You can also find specific candle dyes. Read the instructions to determine the amount of dye to add and dose it in drops until you get the desired shade. Shake the container well before use.
Part 3 of 3: Shaping the Candle
Step 1. Place a wick in the center of the candle mold
The wick should remain in the center of the mold so that it protrudes 5 cm from the candle. You can also attach the wick to the bottom of the mold with double-sided tape. To keep it in place, wrap the outer end around the center of a pen or pencil and put the pen on top of the container where you will pour the wax. Make sure the wick falls straight into the center of the mold.
Step 2. Pour the melted wax into the mold
Pour it slowly so it doesn't overflow. Be careful not to accidentally drop the wick out of the container. Fill the molds to taste. The beeswax will shrink slightly when cooled; keep this in mind when pouring it.
Step 3. Let the wax cool
Best to let it cool for 24 hours if possible. The more you let it cool, the better it will be.
- Paraffin candles generally take 24 hours to cool.
- Soy candles take 4 to 5 hours to cool.
- Beeswax candles generally take 6 hours to cool but it is best to let them sit overnight if possible.
- If you made your new candles from the wax of the old ones, you should let them cool for at least a couple of hours.
Step 4. Remove the wax from the mold and shorten the wick to a length of approximately 0.5cm
This will help contain the flame, as a long wick will generate an excessively bulky flame.
