Making Candles Homemade

Paraffin is a petroleum-based wax. It comes in many different forms. You can even buy it pre-colored. It is one of the most popular waxes maybe due to the fact that it is the least expensive. Paraffin comes in different blends. There are specific types for pillars, containers and votive candles. They even have a blend for layering.

When making a candle with paraffin remember its nature is to shrink as it hardens. This creates a divot in the middle of the candle. To cover it up you will need to do a second pouring of wax to fill that hole. However manufacturers have come to the rescue and created a one pour wax that saves time but is more expensive. So you just need to decide, a little more time or a little more money, it's good to have choices..

As you shop for your wax, be sure to find the right wax for the candle you want to create. Read all the directions and warnings. Different paraffin waxes have different melt and flash points.

Soy wax is a vegetable wax that is made from, you guessed it, soybeans. Soy wax is more expensive than paraffin, however it burns cleaner. Many candle makers are making it the wax of choice for this reason.

When melting and cooling soy wax you need to be careful. If the wax gets too hot it can burn, leaving the wax with a yellowish appearance. If it cools too quickly it can crack. Soy wax is softer than paraffin and doesn't work well for novelty, taper or pillar candles. It's a great wax for making scented jar candles, tea lights and votive candles are another excellent use for soy wax.

Soy and paraffin both hold color and scent well.

Gel candle wax is made from mineral oil and resin. It comes in three densities; high, medium and low. The higher the density the thicker the gel. If you want to add color or fragrance you will need to use a high density wax.

Melting the gel wax is also a little tricky. The usual double boiler method takes too long to melt the gel. Most gel candle makers use a multi-cooker. (It is kind of like a deep fryer.) You will need to stir the gel wax as it melts. Use a large metal or hard plastic stick as wooden spoons can add bubbles to the gel.

The greatest part about gel wax is if you have a high density wax you can add decorations directly to it, so that they float within the candle. Plus gel candles burn slower then regular wax so they will last a little longer.

Whatever medium you use for making candles, with a little coaching you'll be an expert before you know it. If you are new to candle making you may want to check out this resource. It will take you step by step through the process of making your first candles and guide you every step of the way, taking you quickly from novice to pro. It also provides great insight for even the experienced candle maker. It's just a really good how-to guide and will even show you how to make some extra money selling your candle creations. Click here to check it out, if you buy it here I will make a little commission and can go buy more wax =)
www.candleshomemade.info

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