Making Soy Candles

Making soy candles is very satisfying and like gel candles they are easier to make than paraffin candles. Cleaning soy wax is as simple as using soap and water since soy wax is water soluble. You can also put your utensils in the dishwasher when you're finished.

Simply put, to make soy candles you comb the wax with dye and fragrance. These items all work in combination with each other. Hence, they affect the wax and also the outcome of the candle's performance.

Since its essential everything reacts favorably together, you need to follow the instructions for making soy candles. Below is a guide to a help you get started. If you follow the directions for making soy candles correctly you're sure to have some of the most beautiful looking candles when you're finished.

Materials Needed:

One pound of soy wax
One mason jar
One ounce of fragrance oil
Wax dye
One cotton wick

Soy wax

Soy wax emits little soot and the candles made from it burn up to 30 to 50 percent longer than the paraffin waxes customarily used in candles. Made from soybeans, soy wax comes in block or flake form. The flakes are generally easier to use.

Fragrance

To create your own scented soy candle, just mix different fragrances together. Make sure however, the fragrances you buy are compatible with soy wax. Otherwise, the fragrance can have negative effect on the candle.

Dyes

Soy candles can take various forms of color including concentrated liquids and dye chips. Another dye that is often used when making soy candles is the dye blocks made out of wax. These are made to melt with the soy wax.

Candle containers

There are a host of containers you can use for soy candles. Even a container as simple as a mason jar can be used. The only requirement is the container be clean, dry and at room temperature. Do not preheat.

Making Soy candles

First slowly cook the soy wax on medium heat until completely melted. Remove from heat and stir in the fragrance until absorbed in the wax. It's here that you can add dye. Now pour the wax carefully into the container and put the wick in the middle. Use a clothespin to keep the wick centered. After the candle has hardened, trim the wick to a half inch. It's now time to light your soy candle. Enjoy what you've created.