The hottest new wax since the 90s has been soy wax. Why? It’s the cheapest all-natural wax available on the market. For so long, paraffin wax was the go-to for candles because it was cheap. However, it’s also toxic, causing harm to health and Mother Nature over time.
Today, times have changed. You can now make a candle using soy wax! It’s a kindness to your wallet, the environment, yourself, and your loved ones. Read on to learn how.
Supplies needed:
Soy wax
Wicks
Glue dots
Tools:
Wax thermometer
Centering device per container
Wooden spoon
Equipment:
Wax pouring pitcher
Double boiler or 2 different-sized pots
Step 1: Prepare the Wax
Measure the wax according to how much many candles you want to make, and how much each candle would weigh. A simple way to do this is by knowing how much each container can hold. Multiply the number of candles by the weight of each, and you get the total amount of wax you need to work with. Keep in mind that an ounce is equivalent to 28.35 grams.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
Place the wax and the thermometer into a wax pouring pitcher. It’s a tin metal pitcher, which you’ll then place inside a double boiler. If you don’t have one, put one together easily by placing a small pot inside another pot. Be sure the bigger one contains 1-2 inches of water. The wax pouring pitcher goes inside the top pot. Every wax has its own melting temperature; for H&C soy wax, it’s 120°F.
Step 3: Mix in Dye and Fragrance
If you prefer not to have color and scents, skip to the next step. This step is optional and completely depends on your own preference. Like with melting point, when to mix fragrance or essential oils and dye vary. For some, it’s a range; for others, it’s an exact temperature. With Hearts & Crafts, dye and fragrance should be added when the soy wax is at 185°F. Mix them well using the wooden spoon.
Step 4: Prep the Container
While waiting for it to cool to pouring temp, preheat the candle holders. If the sides are too cold, the wax will pull away from the surface, creating small craters and unsightly candles. Stick a glue dot onto one end of a wick, then onto the bottom where you want the wick to stand. Slip the other end through the hole of the centering device, and let it rest on top of the container. Repeat with the rest.
Step 5: Pour the Wax
When the wax cools to 167°F, transfer it into the holders and leave it to solidify for several hours. Soy wax is too soft to support itself so it needs a candle holder. This creates another fun element to making the candle! There are plenty of beautifully designed containers made from different materials, like ceramic and tin. Dress up the container by adding your own design or a ribbon!
Love the Process
Candle making is a very pleasant and therapeutic activity you can do alone or share with family and friends. Anyone can become a candle maker. With patience, research, and practice, it won’t be long before you become skilled in the craft. There are a lot of resources available to help you but what’s important is you find joy in the process.