Soy candles have taken the world by storm, offering a cleaner and longer-burning alternative to traditional paraffin candles. They're also surprisingly easy to make at home, and to clean up after with soap and hot water being sufficient to clean your equipment. Whether you're crafting a personalized gift or creating ambiance for your own space, this guide will walk you through the process of making your own soy candles.
A quick disclaimer, always use extra care when creating soy candles at home, and make sure to TEST your finished products. Most stores where you can buy wicks will have different sizes based on the size of container, so make sure that you get one that is appropriately sized otherwise you risk tunnelling (where the wax doesn’t melt all the way across), or if your wick is too big, it can cause the candle to burn too quickly or heat the glass up too much causing it to shatter. It is also incredibly important to NEVER leave a candle unattended and trim your wick each time before lighting.
Materials & Equipment Needed
- Soy wax flakes
- Candle wicks (with metal tabs and wick stickers for stability)
- Glass or metal containers
- Fragrance oil or essential oil (optional)
- Candle dye or crayon shavings (optional for color)
- A double boiler or microwave-safe container
- A thermometer
- Stirring utensil (spatula works best)
- Wick holder or clothes pin
- Scissors
- Scale
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Your Workspace
Clear a space in your kitchen and lay out all your materials. Ensure the area is free of drafts, as these can cause candles to cool unevenly or capture air bubbles.
- Measure the Wax
Weigh out the amount of soy wax flakes you'll need for your container. The best way to measure this is to put your container on the scale, tare the scale, fill your container with water and then multiply that number by 0.8 to 0.9 depending on the specific density of wax you are using to give you the weight of unmelted wax you will need for your candle.
- Melt the Wax
Using a double boiler, where you will have a pot with boiling water and place a Pyrex bowl on top to melt the soy wax flakes. Although it is not recommended, you can use a microwave. If you're using a microwave, heat in intervals, stirring in between until fully melted. Monitor the wax's temperature with your thermometer; ideally, it should be heated to 180°F (80°C)
- Prepare the Container
While the wax is melting, prepare your container(s). Position the wick in the center of your container and put it off to the side.
- Add Fragrance and Color (Optional)
Once the wax is melted, and has reached 180°F (80°C) add the fragrance oil as this temperature encourages the best scent throw without burning off the fragrance. Allow the wax to cool slightly (around 140°F or 60°C). If you're adding color, melt in your dye or crayon shavings until you achieve the desired shade.
- Pour the Wax
Carefully pour the melted wax into the container, leaving about half an inch at the top.
Use a wick holder or clothes pin placed across the top of the container to keep the wick straight and centered. Pro Tip: Make sure to check that the wick is centered from all sides!
- Allow to Set
Let your candle cool and solidify for at least 24 hours. Avoid moving the candle during this time to ensure even cooling.
- Trim the Wick
Once your candle has set, trim the wick to about a quarter of an inch above the wax surface.
- Light and Enjoy
Your soy candle is now ready to use! Always burn candles on a heat-resistant surface, and never leave them unattended. For best results, wait at least 48 hours after pouring before lighting your candle
Conclusion
Making soy candles at home is a straightforward and rewarding process, allowing you to customize scents, colors, and containers to your heart's content. They also make perfect gifts for loved ones or a cozy addition to your home. Happy crafting!
For an easier way to get your hands on some candles, click here to see our portfolio of products.