Eager to dive into the world of soy wax candle making? We’ve got you covered!
Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process of creating your own soy candles, from adding color and scent to crafting two stunning, handmade soy container candles. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned crafter, this tutorial will equip you with the skills you need to make beautiful candles right at home.
Why Choose Soy Wax?
Soy wax is the ideal choice for beginners and experts alike. It’s easy to work with, burns beautifully, and cleans up effortlessly with just soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Plus, it’s perfect for anyone looking to create candles that burn longer and cleaner.
Crafting Your Own Soy Wax Candle:
1. Melt the wax
Begin your candle-making adventure by melting soy wax flakes. Place them in a glass bowl and set it atop a saucepan filled with water, creating a double boiler setup. Gently heat the wax, stirring occasionally, until it’s smooth and pourable. For every 2 cups of flakes, you’ll get 1 cup of liquid wax.
Prefer a quicker method? Microwave the flakes in one-minute bursts until melted. While you’re at it, give your glass jar a warm-up to ensure the wax sets perfectly.
- Infuse Your Fragrance
Once your wax reaches a cozy 120 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to add a touch of magic with your chosen fragrance. Gently stir it in—no need to heat further, as you don’t want to lose any of that delightful aroma. Use 1 ounce of fragrance oil per pound of wax for a strong scent, or experiment with 50-100 drops of essential oils for a natural touch.
Remember, the scent will soften as the candle sets, so find your perfect balance.
- Anchor the Wick
To keep your wick in place, dab a bit of melted wax onto the bottom of your container and press the wick into it. Hold it there until the wax hardens, then use a clothespin or wick holder to keep it centered and upright. For shallow, wide containers, consider adding a few wicks for a well-balanced burn.
Alternatively, a touch of superglue will keep it securely in position.
- Pour with Precision
Before pouring, give your melted wax a final stir to ensure it's smooth and even. Slowly pour the wax into your container, leaving a bit of space at the top. Any extra wax can be saved for your next candle-making adventure.
Enjoy the calming aroma as it fills your space!
- Let It Set
Allow your candle to set overnight, soaking in the serene anticipation of its light. Once fully hardened, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch.
Your handcrafted soy candle is now ready to bring warmth and joy to your home.
Is it safe to make soy candles at home?
Yes, making soy candles at home is safe. Research shows that most common candle waxes, including soy, burn cleanly. For a purely animal-free option, soy wax is a fantastic choice, offering peace of mind along with a clean burn.
How to add fragrance to soy candles?
To infuse your soy candles with fragrance, mix in fragrance oils at 8-10% of the total wax weight. For essential oils, a ratio of 5% works well. Ensure you stir thoroughly to distribute the scent evenly throughout the wax.
Do soy candles burn longer than paraffin candles?
Yes, soy candles generally burn longer than paraffin ones. They produce no petro soot, making them a cleaner, more eco-friendly option. For a healthier home ambiance, consider switching to soy candles for an extended, clean-burning fragrance.
What is the safest wax for candles?
Truly non-toxic candles that are 100% natural should be made out of soy or beeswax for example. Opt for candles scented with pure essential oils or unscented, and wicks made from cotton, paper, or wood. Transparency in ingredient lists helps ensure you’re making a safe choice.
With our expertise at Seventh Avenue Apothecary, we’re here to share a few insider tips to elevate your candle-making adventure. Discover more and get inspired at with our soy wax candles. Happy crafting!