Candle making requires the following equipment, some of which
you might find in your own home and others which can be purchased
from a craft supplier or online:
Paraffin wax, wicks, coloured dyes and additives to create a
range of effects. A double boiler melting system using one saucepan
inside another. Scales to weigh the wax, a ladle to put wax
into the melter and a pouring jug. A thermometer, covering the
scale 38 - 177°C (100 - 350°F), to measure the temperature
of the melting wax. moulds can be made from materials such as
metal, plastic, glass, latex and rubber and flower pots (provided
the hole is sealed). A blow torch to preheat metal moulds and
remove surface imperfections.
Heated wax could cause burns and consequently care should be
taken throughout the candle making process. Monitor the heating
process, using the thermometer to measure the temperature of
the wax and ensure that it does not overheat.
Ensure that you have everything you will need to hand.
Fill the mould with water and measure it, to calculate the amount
of wax needed, where 3 ounces of wax are needed for each 3.5
ounces of water.
Put wax into the top saucepan, fill the lower pan a third full
of water and begin heating it gently on the stove.
Melt the wax to a temperature of approximately 180°F. The
thermometer should be dipped into the wax, but not touching
the bottom of the pan, to ensure readings are correct.
Place a length of wick into the melted wax and remove it when
it begins releasing bubbles, indicating that sufficient wax
has been absorbed. Using a heat proof implement, remove the
wick from the hot wax and pull it tight and lay it flat to dry.
When the wick has hardened, put it through the small hole at
the top of the mould and pull it through, securing it around
a wick support such as a pencil.
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When the wax reaches the required
temperature, add 1/2 tsp of vybar and 3 TBS stearic acid for
each one pound of wax and when the additives have dissolved
add colour.
Add one ounce of fragrance oil for each pound of wax and stir
gently for a couple of minutes.
Use the jug to pour wax into the mould. Metal moulds should
be preheated prior to pouring using a blow torch or low temperature
oven.
Tap the sides of the mould a few times before the wax sets,
to release trapped air bubbles.
When the wax becomes tacky, poke small holes around the wick
to release air pockets in the candle which could be a fire hazard.
Leave the candle for a few hours to set. Wax contracts as it
cools and consequently you should top up the mould by melting
and pouring some more wax.
When the wax has set, remove the candle from its mould and if
necessary smooth and even its base.
Let the candle stand for at least a couple of days before lighting
it. This allows time for the scent to bind with the wax.
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