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Here are the nine basic steps to making soy candles. Following each
step will allow you to create quality soy candles. First Step -
Measuring Your Wax
The first step in making soy candles is deciding what type of candle
to create. The reason for this is because the soy wax has to be
carefully measured out according to the type of candle and the number
of candles that are being made. For demonstration purposes we will be
making votive candles. These candles require around two ounces of soy
wax per candle. Work with even measurements whenever possible. If we
were to make eight votive candles we would need about one pound of soy
wax.
Second Step - Melt Your Wax
The next step in making soy candles is to melt the soy wax. You can
purchase a wax melter for around $20 from your local department store
or use a double boiler to melt your wax. Using a double boiler works
well but it is a little slower for melting your wax. You must never
melt wax directly on the stove as there is a risk where the wax will
burst into flames.
Third Step - Adding Color
The third step in how to make soy candles is to add color to your
candles. You can purchase and use candle dye and stir it into your
melted wax. You may also use crayons to add color to your soy candles.
You do not want to use food coloring as this will damage your soy
candle.
Fourth Step - Adding A Fragrance
When adding fragrance to your candle wax you want to add about one and
a half ounces of your fragrance for every pound of candle wax that you
use. The temperature of the wax needs to be around 170 degrees so that
the fragrance will bind with the wax properly. Stir the mixture for
about two minutes or so before moving on to the next step.
Fifth Step - Reduce The Heat
The fifth step in how to make soy candles is to reduce the heat from
170 degrees to close to 150 degrees. You should also warm your candle
molds so that they are slightly above room temperature. By doing this
will allow the candles to release from their molds much easier.
Sixth Step - Pour Your Candle Wax Into Your Molds
When the wax is cooled to around 150 degrees you can then pour your
wax into the molds. You can use a Pyrex measuring cup if you don't
have a pour pot. Make sure you fill each mold to the top.
Seventh Step - Add Your Wicks
Once you notice a thin layer of skin on the top of the mold it is time
to add your wicks. Make sure your wicks are straight and push it all
the way to the bottom of the mold. Take care to make sure that you
keep it straight and centered.
Eighth Step - Smoothing Out The Imperfections
No matter how careful you were when you pressed the wick into the
candle you probably created a slight depression in the skin. The only
way you can smooth out this imperfection is to re-melt the wax. Be
very careful that you don't scorch the candle or wick.
Ninth Step: You Have Your Candles
You need to wait about 5 hours for the candles to set properly. Once
the candles are set just give a little pull on the wick and the candle
should pop right out of the mold.
These are very simple steps in how to make soy candles. Take your
time and have some fun with your candle making hobby.
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