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Interview with a Candle-Making Expert
Q: What are the main differences between soy and bees wax when making candles?
A: The main difference between the two is that they produce different results when used to make candles. Soy wax has a lower melting point, so it’s generally easier to work with than bees wax, which needs more heat. Soy also burns slower and cooler than bees wax, which produces a more intense flame. Soy wax also produces more uniform-shaped candles than beeswax because it holds its shape better when cooled. In terms of sustainability, soy wax usually comes from renewable sources while beeswax is not always sustainably sourced. Furthermore, soy tends to be less expensive as well.
Include a list of resources
Websites:
• The Spruce Crafts : How to Make Soy Candles https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/what-are-soy-candles-1763028
• Etsy : Natural Soy Wax Candle Making Guide https://www.etsy.com/ca/guide/natural-soy-wax-candle-making-basics
• Beeswax Candle Works : Beeswax Candles & Making Your Own https://beeswaxcandleworks.info/BeeswaxCandlesAndMakingYourOwn.htm
Books:
• Making Handcrafted Candles and Soaps for Dummies by Kelly Ewing
• Natural Ingredients in Candle & Soap Making by Dixon J. Smith
• The Art of Candle Making by David Constable
Other Resources:
• YouTube Videos – Search “DIY soy candle making” or “DIY bees wax candle making” for helpful tutorials
• Online Forums – Connect with fellow makers on forums such as Reddit and Goodreads to ask questions and share insights
Utilize visual elements
When it comes to making candles, understanding the different qualities of soy wax and beeswax can help you decide which type to use. Soy candles are made from vegetable oils while beeswax is a natural bee product. Each type of wax has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
Soy wax: Soy wax is more affordable than beeswax, has a longer burn time, doesn’t emit any smoke, and isn’t known to produce harmful toxins when burned.
Beeswax: Beeswax provides a greater scent throw and can be used in conjunction with essential oils for added fragrance. It also burns very cleanly and has a higher melting point than soy wax, meaning that it may take longer to melt but will hold its shape better when vigorously melted and poured.
Disadvantages
Soy wax: Although soy candles do not create smoke or toxins, they may release soot during their burn if not cooled correctly which can stain walls or fixtures in your home. Additionally, it can be difficult to achieve vibrant dye colors due to the paleness of the wax itself.
Beeswax: Because beeswax is an animal byproduct, it can be quite expensive. Also, unlike with soy wax don’t have the option of using fragrances such as essential oils to scent your candles because these won’t stick onto beeswax.
Visuals: Include visuals such as slideshows with photographs showing examples of soy candles burning without emitting soot or staining walls as well as various shades of coloured candles achieved through utilizing dye on soy-based ones contrasted against plain-coloured ones produced with beeswax. Comparisons between long burn times of the two types could also be displayed adjacent to each other in depicting average hours each type lasts when lit up. Illustrations or diagrams illustrating why a higher melting point is beneficial could also help readers further understand its advantages over that of soy wax.
Provide a step-by-step guide
Step 1: Gather Supplies – Get supplies for candle-making, such as wax (either beeswax or soy wax), a wax melting pot, wicks, molds, and fragrances or essential oils if desired.
Step 2: Prepare the Wax– Follow the instructions for the type of wax being used; for example with beeswax pellets, melt them in a double boiler or hot plate over medium heat. If using soy wax flakes, melt in the microwave by heating in 30-second intervals until it is completely melted.
Step 3: Dip and Attach Wick – Especially when working with small candles, it helps to attach the wick to a pencil. Dip both ends of the wick into the molten wax to help secure to keep it taut.
Step 4: Add Scent – Once desired temperature and texture of the wax have been reached (150 °F for beeswax or 170 °F for soy), stir 1 teaspoon of fragrance or essential oil per pound of wax before pouring into molds or containers.
Step 5: Set Molds – Carefully pour your scented wax into chosen molds, ensuring the wick remains centered and at the top throughout this process. Ensure sharp corners are avoided in each fill; this will help prevent cracking once cooled and properly set into off-white smooth finish. Let cool thoroughly before unmolding.
Step 6: Finishing Touches – After removing from mold/container, cut off excess/loose length on each end of wick using scissors or wire cutters; this creates a nice neat finish to each candle. Tie bow if desired around each candle’s neck!
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.
