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CANDLE MOULDS

I know what some of you are thinking...

mould... shouldn't it be mold?

Well, you can spell mould either way. Mould is the olde English way. Since I like to feel like a medieval chandler as opposed to some fungi that is currently growing on a piece of cheese, I will use the spelling of mould throughout this book. But either spelling is correct.

Anyway, moulds today are generally quite easy to obtain and there is a decent selection of moulds available. For the most part, moulds are made from either metal, plastic or rubber.

Most people tend use plastic moulds as they provide a smooth and glossy finish to the candles. Rubber moulds, on the other hand, produce a different surface effect.

Each type of mould has its own pros and cons which we will review. As you can imagine, the type of mould you use will depend on the type of candle you are making and your budget.

Metal moulds last a long time and can be seamed or seamless. If you buy a metal mould with a seam, then you can always scrape the seam off your candle once made.

Metal moulds can be more expensive with fewer choices available. Primarily, metal moulds are used for making block candles.

Metal moulds leave a smooth finish and are therefore, not a good mould to use if you want to add details or patterns.

If you purchase a metal mould, be careful not to drop it and dent the mould. Make sure your mould is also clean after using it as wax that is stuck inside the mould can cause problems for your future candle making projects.

Review:

• Susceptible to denting
• Can be seamed or seamless
• Not as many choices available
• More expensive than other moulds

Plastic moulds can be found in numerous shapes and sizes.

Plastic moulds are used by most candle makers. However, plastic moulds can develop warping and scratching over time. These are the two major drawbacks of plastic moulds.

Plastic moulds create a smooth finish.

Review:

• Used most often
• Can develop warping or scratching

Rubber or latex moulds are very versatile. These types of moulds have the ability to provide great detail and relief. In addition, the flexibility of the rubber allows you to remove the mould from a candle that could not be removed if the mould were rigid.

Rubber and latex moulds do have a limited life span. Also, do not use rubber or latex moulds when using stearin as the stearin will rot the moulds. Instead, use Vybar in small amounts to help release the candle from the mould.

Review:

• Limited lifespan
• Very flexible and versatile
• Great for making detailed candles

You can also buy glass moulds which add a brilliant gloss finish to your candles; however, as with metal moulds, glass moulds are more expensive and not as easily available as plastic or rubber moulds. You also have fewer options for shapes and a release agent must always be used.

Review:

• More expensive
• Not readily available
• Creates a nice gloss finish
• A release agent must be used

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