Making soy candles for the home
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Making soy candles have many advantages over making traditional wax candles. In fact, soy candles burn longer and more evenly than traditional candles. They also produce less soot and are non-toxic. Although many soy candles are available for purchase, particularly on-line, learning how to make soy candles can save money and allow for the making of more individualize candles to meet specific needs.
Mastering the art of how to make soy candles takes a little trial and error. The wax needs to be at just the right temperature and it must be poured at just the right time. In addition, handmade soy candles need to receive ample cooling time to properly form. After learning the basic skills of how to make soy candles, the process is actually quite simple and enjoyable.
Soy Candle Making Supplies
To make soy candles, it is necessary to have the following soy candle making supplies:
- A pot
- A stirring spoon
- Oven (soy wax can be microwaved, but it is not recommended)
- A thermometer that can withstand high temperatures
- Wax paper or newspaper
- Clothespin or pliers
- Soy Wax
- Colorants
- Fragrance Oils
- Wicks
- Containers
Procedure for Making Soy Candels
1.Line the work area with wax paper or newspaper.
2.Place wicks in the center of the candle containers. The wicks can be hot-glued in place or adhered with wick stickers.
3.Heat the soy wax to between 150 - 180 degrees Fahrenheit (The melting point of soy wax is 127 degrees Fahrenheit and the flashpoint is 500 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be held at temperatures above 150 degrees Fahrenheit for too long, or else the wax will burn and be yellowed.)
4.Add desired color
5.Remove the soy wax from the heat
6.Add fragrance when the soy wax is between 140 - 150 degrees Fahrenheit (Add about 7% of the weight of the soy wax. For example, one pound of soy wax would require 1.12 ounces of fragrance oil. If the fragrance oil concentration is too high, it will bleed through the soy wax.)
7.Pour the soy wax into the containers while it is between 95 - 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Hold the wax up straight with a clothespin or pliers.
8.Allow to cool for at least 12 hours (They should not be placed in water or another cold area to speed cooling, as they can cause the soy candle to crack)
If the top of the wax is rough after pouring, it was most likely poured at the wrong temperature. Usually, this is a sign that the temperature was too high when poured.
Soy wax can be used to make soy votives, soy pillars, and soy floating candles of up to a 3 inch diameter. Soy wax is not, however, recommended for making novelty candles or taper candles.
Learning how to make soy candles is a pleasant experience. In addition, these candles are great for use in the home or as gifts for friends and family.
