Candle Making Instructions

General Candle Making

Making a candle is a process of combining wax, dye, fragrance, wick, and container configuration. All of these components can have a dramatic effect on the wax, and how the candle performs.

Containers

The recommended size of the container for this kit is from 2 ½ to 4 inches in diameter. Anything larger will need multiple wicks. Containers should be clean and at room temperature.

Melting The Wax

Soy wax can be melted in the microwave or in a double boiler. If using the microwave, melt the wax for 30 seconds at a time and stir. If using a double boiler, stir the wax as it melts. Heat the wax to about 160 degrees.

Wicking

We recommend 100% cotton cored wicks for soy wax. These wicks create a nice and even burn pool. You will need to wick your container. If using a single wick, center it in the container. If you are using a large container, use multiple wicks and place them in the container equidistant from each other. Burn pool size greatly affects scent throw. An ideal burn pool is ¼ to ½ inches deep, and the full diameter of the container. Over wicking will produce a deeper, quicker burn pool, but may cause sooting, or emit the fragrance too fast. Wicks should be kept trimmed to 1/8 inch.

When using wick stickums, remove the paper from one side and press the stickum firmly onto the metal wick base. Remove the paper from the other side of the wick stickum, and attach the wick to the center of your container. The wick stickums just seem to work better when they are not touched!

To center your wicks after pouring, put it between 2 pencils as they rest on top of your container.

Color

Add the color after the wax is completely melted. Add the dye slowly, a small sliver at a time, or your candle may be darker than you want. To test the color, drip a small amount of the colored wax onto a white dish. The color will be only a bit darker than the drop. If you wish to make your candle darker or “richer”, add a little black dye to the color you are using.

Fragrance

Soy wax can be used with most any fragrance or essential oil. Add your fragrance just before you pour, otherwise it may evaporate as it sits in the melted wax. One ounce of fragrance is recommended for one pound of wax. You can double scent your candles and use 2 ounces of fragrance per pound of wax, if you like an extremely fragrant candle.

You can also use the fragrance in soap, and make matched gift sets!! (Cinnamon and cinnamon blends are not recommended for skin products)

Pouring

We suggest pouring at 120 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit for most applications. You can also pour at 100 degrees Fahrenheit as long as the wax is kept in constant motion. Lower pour temperatures may eliminate possible frosting while producing a smooth top and good adhesion.

Candle Cooling

Allow the candles to cool undisturbed and uncovered at room temperature. When cooling multiple candles, allow at least ½ inch space between containers for even cooling. Allow the candles to cure for at least 24 hours before burning. Place the candle burning instructions/warning labels on the bottom of your container after cooling.

The above instructions are only suggestions, and your results may vary. Testing and experimenting are the only way to achieve the effects and results you desire. Be sure to follow all safety precautions and directions recommended by the manufacturer of the tools, materials, and equipment you use.

Clean up

Clean up is a snap! Just wash your equipment in soap and warm water. You can also wash out your spent candle container and reuse it again!!!