Include a section on safety/cautionary tips
When making scented candles, it is important to exercise caution when working with wax, which can cause burns if touched while hot. Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, long pants and safety glasses at all times. Heat the wax in a double boiler or crockpot on low heat and do not leave it unattended. Keep kids and pets away from where the materials are kept and being used as there is a potential risk of fire. When melting wax over/in an open flame, use a deep pot or pan and make sure combustible materials such as towels, cardboard, paper bags or cloth are not around the area. Once cooled the wax can be handled with bare hands but should be done carefully to avoid getting burned. Take extra care when pouring melted wax into molds since it will be very hot and have potential for splashing up onto skin and clothes.
In addition to securing safety precautions when making scented candles, you will also need several other materials: candle wick(s), wax pellets/granules or blocks, fragrant oil(s) of your choice, dyes (optional), containers/molds to pour melted wax into, scissors if using pre-waxed wicks, double boiler /crock-pot you don’t use for food and a thermometer (optional).
Fill in facts and figures
Types of Wax
There are several types of wax available for making scented candles, including beeswax, soy wax, palm wax, and paraffin. Beeswax has a higher melting point than the other options so it preserves a stronger scent and has a longer burn time; however, it can be more expensive than Soy wax. Soy is also popular because of being renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic. Palm wax is another high quality option that has a beautiful crystallization texture to the candle but requires special wicks. Paraffin is generally inexpensive and can be used in many applications like votives or pillars.
Types of Wicks
The type of wick required for candle-making depends on the type of wax used or desired effects when burned (e.g., multiple flames or flame height). Cotton core wicks are most commonly used with paraffin; paper core wicks are recommended for soy-based blends; cotton flat braid wicks are well suited for beeswax candles as they have good absorbency; hemp stalks can provide a slower burning time perfect for container candles; while zinc-core wicks snap back like springs to create a gentle flicker almost like fireflies.
Types of Scents
When it comes to scents there’s no limit to what you can add to your candles! You can mix essential oils or fragrances together to create unique combinations such as rosemary & lemongrass or bergamot & lavender. You can also get necessary carrier oils to help combine volatile scents and create bigger batches if desired. Commonly available fragrances include fruit notes like tangerine & strawberry, herbaceous ones like eucalyptus & bay leaf, spicy aromatics such as clove & cardamom, sweet delicacies like Vetyver & vanilla, woodsy smells such as cedarwood & sandalwood – all depending on personal preference!
Include a troubleshooting section
Troubleshooting:
1. Uneven Wax Pours – If your wax pour is uneven, you may need to relight your wick and keep a close eye on the temperature of the melting wax. Make sure you’re stirring regularly while the wax melts and pour slowly near the center of your container to prevent air bubbles on the edges of your candle.
2. Preventions Cracking – To help prevent your candles from cracking, avoid pouring too hot or too cold (ideal pouring temperature should be between 130°F and 140°F). Consider using a thermometer when heating or melting your wax so that it doesn’t get too hot and cause it to crack. When possible, also try to allow for some headspace in your jar by leaving at least 1/4-inch of space before topping off with melted wax, as this will help prevent cracked tops caused by shrinkage after cooling.
Discuss other types of candles
Layered Candles: Layered candles take ordinary candles to the next level with multiple layers of wax in contrasting colors. This type of candle looks very elegant and eye-catching. They also require a little bit more effort to make than a traditional single color wax candle.
Floating Candles: Floating candles are great for a special occasion or event as they can be used both indoors and outdoors. They’re unique because they actually float on top of water in whatever design you desire! You have the flexibility of choosing whatever type and scent of wax when making this type of candle.
Embedded Candles: Embedded candles are an irresistible option, especially if you’re looking to make your own homemade candles. To make those, you’ll need to melt down the colored or scented wax that you prefer and then add small items such as fragrant herbs, pieces of dried flowering plants, or colored pebbles into the melted wax before pouring it into molds. Once cooled, you will have unique and beautiful embedded candles!
Welcome to my candle making blog! In this blog, I will be sharing my tips and tricks for making candles. I will also be sharing some of my favorite recipes.
