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MAKING CANDLES
INTRODUCTION
In this section we are going to actually learn how to make candles.
Some candles are easier to make than others. Although, all candles in this
book are relatively easy to make. This book doesn't contain information on
difficult, complex or extremely time consuming candles.
This does not mean that the candles are boring. It just means the candles are
simple and easy to make.
For example, you will be learning how to make multi-colored candles. Granted,
this takes longer than making a single color candle, but for the most part,
making multi-colored candles is easy and quick.
Here are some of the candles you will be learning to make:
- Ice candles
- Shell candles
- Water candles
- Tin foil candles
- Angled candles
- Jam jar candles
- Chunky candles
- Scented candles
- Floating candles
- Tapered candles
- Cinnamon candles
- Single color candles
- Egg shaped candles
- Multi-colored candles
- Rolled beeswax candles
- Orange scented candles
At the end, you will learn about some common candle problems and how to solve
them!
Important:
Please Note: To save time and repetition, when writing directions for
making candles, I will often simply say "melt wax" or something to
this degree. It is assumed that you have already determined how much wax, dye,
stearin, fragrance, etc. that you will need. It is also assumed that you know
what the temperature of the wax should be before pouring.
Although I would love to be able to give exact temperatures, the fact is, the
temperature the wax should be at the time of pouring will depend on the wax you
are using, the mould you are using and what you are trying to achieve.
It's important to note that there is a difference between the melting
temperature and the pouring temperature. Please be sure you know what the
pouring temperature is before you make your candles.
Always keep your thermometer in the wax to ensure you don't go past the
proper pouring temperature. Once your wax reaches it pouring temperature, remove
it from the heat.
Pouring Temperatures
Although pouring temperatures may vary slightly from wax to wax and from
project to project, there are some general rules you can follow when pouring
wax.
Pouring Temperatures For Containers:
When pouring wax into containers such as jam jars, the wax should be
poured at 71º to 82º C (160º to 180º F).
Before pouring the hot wax into the glass jar or any jar, you should perform
some tests to make sure the jar can withstand the heat. This is an extremely
important safety precaution.
To ensure the jar can withstand the heat, first place the jar in a sink and
fill with hot tap water. If the jar survives, then try filling the jar with near
boiling water. If the jar does not break then chances are it should be safe for
pouring hot wax into it. However, you must still proceed with caution whenever
pouring hot wax into any jar or mould.
In most situations, wax is poured at 71º C (160º F) into glass jars.
Pouring Temperatures For Moulds:
These general guidelines will help you when the manufacturer does not provide
instructions.
When a manufacturer does provide instructions then those instructions should
be followed.
100% Beeswax Candles:
Pour wax at 77º C (170º F)
Plastic Moulds:
Pour wax at 82º to 88º C (180º to 190º F)
Metal Moulds:
Pour wax at 93º C (200º F)
It Is Assumed
Throughout this book it is assumed, unless otherwise stated, that you
are using paraffin wax.
If you are planning on using beeswax then you will simply need to make some
adjustments. For example, when using beeswax candles the chances are that you
will not be adding dye or fragrance. Therefore, these steps will not apply to
you.
Also, since beeswax doesn't shrink when it cools, you won't need to fill the
"gaps" with more wax as would the person making a candle from paraffin
wax.
As I have stated many times, and as I will probably state many times more, my
preference is for beeswax candles. However, the simple fact of the matter is not
everyone wants beeswax candles due to the higher price. In addition, paraffin
wax is a great wax to learn the art of candle making with before progressing to
moulded beeswax.
There is no doubt that beeswax can be, but doesn't necessarily have to be,
more challenging than paraffin. So often for beginners, it's a good idea to
begin with paraffin and once comfortable, try making beeswax candles.
Throughout this book, should you wish to use beeswax instead of paraffin wax,
then go right ahead. Just use some common sense and make the necessary
adaptations.
Let's Continue...
Before actually making your candles, it's important to learn how to properly
prime your wicks...
Continue
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