Yes, soy candles are easy to make. You can find soy wax flakes and wicks at your local craft store or online.
The process is simple: melt the wax, add fragrance (if desired), pour into a mold, and let cool. That’s it!
But in this guide, I’ll explain how to do it and give you some tips to make sure your soy candles turn out great.
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Why are soy candles better?
Soy candles are made from soybean oil, which is a renewable resource. They burn slower and cooler than paraffin candles, so they last longer.
And they don’t produce the soot and carcinogens that paraffin candles do.
Also, some people are worried about the fragrances used in candles. But with soy candles, you can use essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances.
Read about all the types of candle wax here.
Here’s what you’ll need:
-Fragrance (optional) I like to use essential oils
How to make soy candles
The first step is to melt the wax. You can do this in a double boiler or in the microwave. If you’re using the microwave, be sure to use a glass bowl and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until the wax is melted.
Once the wax is melted, add your fragrance (if desired). If you’re using essential oils, start with about 10 drops per pound of wax. You can always add more later if you want a stronger scent.
Next, it’s time to pour the wax into your mold(s). For this step, you’ll need a measuring cup with a spout. Slowly pour the wax into the mold, being careful not to spill.
Let the wax cool completely before removing from the mold(s). Once it’s cooled, your soy candles are ready to enjoy!
Tips for making soy candles
-If you’re using essential oils, be sure to use a high-quality oil that is specifically made for candles. Not all essential oils are created equal, and some can actually damage your candles.
-When choosing a mold, make sure it’s made of heat-resistant material. Glass or metal work well. Avoid using plastic, as it can melt when the wax is poured in.
-If you want to add color to your candles, you can use a small amount of candle dye. Add it to the wax before you pour it into the mold.
-Be sure to trim the wicks to about 1/4 inch before lighting. This will help prevent your candles from smoking.
-To get the best burn out of your candles, make sure to burn them for at least 3 hours the first time. This will help the candle’s “memory,” and they will burn more evenly in future use.
I hope this guide was helpful in showing you how easy it is to make soy candles!
How long does it take to make a soy candle?
Making a soy candle is easy and doesn’t take a long time.
In fact, you can make a candle in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how many you make at one time.
If you’re making soy candles for the first time, I recommend starting with just a few so you can get the hang of the process.
You can always make more later!
What essential oils should I use when making soy candles?
There are a lot of different essential oils that can be used in soy candles.
Some of my favorites include:
- lavender
- lemongrass
- peppermint
- vanilla
- floral scents
You can also experiment with different combinations of essential oils to create your own unique scent. Just be sure to use a high-quality oil that is specifically made for candles.
Not all essential oils are created equal, and some can actually damage your candles.
What type of mold should I use for my soy candles?
You can use any type of mold that is made of heat-resistant material.
Glass or metal work well. Avoid using plastic, as it can melt when the wax is poured in.
Glass is probably the most popular – just think of the Yankee Candle and Bath & Body Works candles that you see everywhere. But you can also get creative and use molds in different shapes, sizes, and colors.
If you’re using a mold that is not heat-resistant, be sure to place it on a baking sheet or heat-resistant surface before pouring in the wax.
Can I add color to my soy candles?
Yes! You can use a small amount of candle dye to add color to your candles.
Add it to the wax before you pour it into the mold.
Keep in mind that the color of the wax can affect the scent, so if you’re using a strong essential oil, you may want to go with a lighter color.
Can I add decoration to my soy candles?
Yes! Once the wax has cooled, you can add decoration to your candles.
Some ideas include:
- painting them
- wrapping them in ribbon or twine
- adding labels
- adding heat-proof objects inside the candle
If you’re going to be painting your candles, make sure to use heat-resistant paint. You can find this type of paint at most craft stores.
What wick should I use for my soy candles?
For soy candles, I recommend using a natural cotton wick.
You can find these at most craft stores or online. Avoid using a metal wick, as it can ruin your candles.
Be sure to trim the wicks to about 1/4 inch before lighting. This will help prevent your candles from smoking.
How long should I burn my soy candles?
To get the best burn out of your candles, make sure to burn them for at least 3 hours the first time. This will help the candle’s “memory,” and they will burn more evenly in future use.
But you can burn a candle for as long as you like. Soy candles will last for many hours, so enjoy the relaxing ambiance they create!