How to Make Soy Candles: A Beginner’s Guide
Have you ever wondered how easy it would be to make your own candles? Handmade candles are the perfect gift for a friend or loved one.
The candle industry was valued at $3.54 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow to $6.64 billion by 2027. Consumers are paying more attention to what they buy and the effect products have on their health. Soy wax is a natural product that has become popular with candle enthusiasts for its non-toxic, clean-burning properties.
Would you like to learn how to make soy candles? Keep reading for our guide on how to make your own soy candles.
What Is Soy Wax?
Soy wax is a vegetable wax made from soybean oil. Soy wax has become a popular choice for candle makers due to its natural, sustainable properties. The beans are harvested, cleaned, and rolled before the oil is extracted from them.
Soy wax is a better option for making candles in comparison to paraffin wax which comes from a refined gasoline product. Soy candles produce less soot and harmful chemicals than other types of candles.
Materials You Will Need
Before you get started, you will need to gather all your candle-making equipment. Here are some of the materials you will need:
- Natural Soy Wax (Flakes or Pellets)
- Glass Jars or Containers
- Candle Wicks (Cotton or Wood Wicks)
- Fragrance Oils or Essential Oils
- Glass Measuring Jug or Cup
- Tablespoon
- Fork
- Double Boiler (or Heatproof Bowl and Saucepan)
- Wick Holders
- Digital Thermometer
- Measuring Scales
For extra information on whether you are using the right materials, take a look at Candleers Candle Co.
How to Make Soy Candles
Once you have gathered all your materials and decided what fragrance you will be using, you are ready to make your own candles. Certain fragrances can improve psychological wellbeing so it’s worth doing your research into fragrance oils and essential oils before you begin.
Prepare Your Candle Containers
Make sure you choose heatproof containers that won’t melt when you pour the wax into them! Clean and prepare your containers so that they are ready for you to use.
Add the Wicks
Secure the wicks to the base of the candle container. You can use a hot glue gun to do this or glue dots to make sure the wick does not move when you pour the wax.
Measure Out the Wax
Use your measuring scales to weigh out the amount of wax you will need. This will depend on the size and amount of candles you are making.
Heat the Wax
Slowly melt the wax in a double boiler or heatproof bowl over a saucepan of hot water. Heat the wax until it has all melted. If you are adding fragrance oils make sure that your wax is no higher than 185 degrees Fahrenheit.
If it exceeds this temperature, take it off the heat and let it cool for a little while before adding your fragrance oils.
Pour the Candles
Slowly pour the wax into the containers to avoid air bubbles. Try to use a heatproof container with a spout to make pouring easier.
Cut the Wicks
Let your candles cool for at least 24 hours before you cut the wicks to your desired length. Once you have done this step you can enjoy burning your new candles!
Start Making Your Own Candles Today
Once you have prepared all your materials and decided what type of candles you will be making, you can get started with your new hobby! Soy wax candles are the perfect way to fragrance your home.
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