Soy Candle Making Tips


by Dave Krigger - Date: 2007-01-06 - Word Count: 495 Share This!

A year ago, I never would have thought that I would be so involved in the soy wax candle making business. Just to type this article, I had to finish pouring soy wax into some jars, and wash the wax and scent from my hands. Trust me, soy wax is great, but not so great for keyboards.

I have learned a lot about candle making - shortcuts, dos, don'ts and other guidelines. Here are some tips for making soy candles that should help you get better results. Please note that each manufacturer of soy wax has different temperature requirements. All soy wax is NOT the same.

1 - Get all of your electronic devices - computers, iPods, etc out of the kitchen. Wax and electronics to not mix! Go ahead, do it now - I'll wait.

2 - 1 pound of soy wax melts to 16 ounces of liquid wax. How many candles you make from a pound of wax will depend on the size of the jars you use.

3 - Measure how much your jars hold with water and write down the ounces on the bottom of the jar. This will help you plan how much wax you will need for a batch of candles. Make sure there is room at the top of your candle for any lids you may have for the jars.

4 - Melt your wax but don't let it heat above the suggested temperature. Overheating the wax may cause it to not set correctly - it may turn white, the top of the wax won't be smooth, or it will sink slightly.

5 - Once the wax cools to the specified temperature, add your fragrance. Once your fragrance has been added you should stir the mixture often. Stir well before pouring your candles.

6 - Pour your candles when the wax cools to the suggested pouring temperature or once it starts changing consistency. You will notice that it will cloud up slightly.

7 - You can layer and marble your candles as well. If you layer your candles wait at least 15 minutes for the first layer to set before pouring the next layer. If you want a marble look pour the container ½ way with the first color and then wait a couple of minutes before pouring the second color. These times may vary depending on the wax you are using.

8 - Decorate your containers if you wish with labels, ribbon, stickers, craft paper, charms, or any other decorative items. Your candles can be as creative as you are.

Once again, all soy wax is not the same, so check the temperature recommendations from your manufacturer. Also, make sure that your wick is centered as much as possible before pouring. And, center the wick after pouring. As the candle burns, the melting area should progress toward the outside edges equally on all sides. This ensures that the candle will burn completely and evenly.

Now, if you will excuse me, I would like to see if my iPod still works after it took a dive into the pitcher of hot wax.


Related Tags: candle making, soy candles, soy wax candles, making candles at home, making candles, candle making kits

Andrea Rousseau and Dave Krigger are a husband and wife team who own www.keystonesoycandles.com and www.coolcraftedcandles.com. Go Here for information on Candle Making

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