Wax candles are typically made by melting wax, inserting a wick, and then allowing the wax to solidify into a desired shape. The process involves preparing the wax, positioning the wick, and shaping the candle, which can be done through various methods like molding, dipping, or pouring.
The Core Process
The fundamental steps in making a wax candle are straightforward, though variations exist depending on the scale of production and the type of candle being made.
Essential Components
Every wax candle requires two primary components:
- Wax: The fuel source for the flame.
- Wick: A fibrous string that draws the melted wax up to the flame.
Basic Steps
- Wax Preparation: Wax is heated until it melts into a liquid state. Colorants and fragrances can be added during this stage if desired.
- Wick Integration: A wick is placed within the container or mold where the candle will take shape. It is usually anchored at the bottom and held upright.
- Pouring/Shaping: The melted wax is carefully poured into a container or mold. For methods like dipping, the wick is repeatedly submerged in melted wax.
- Cooling & Solidifying: The wax is left to cool and harden, forming the candle's solid structure around the wick.
- Finishing: The wick is trimmed to the appropriate length, and the candle is prepared for use or packaging.
Types of Wax Used in Candle Making
While the process remains similar, the type of wax used significantly impacts the candle's properties, such as burn time, scent throw, and appearance. Today, most candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. This is a widely available and cost-effective option.
However, a variety of other materials are also used:
- Microcrystalline Wax: Another petroleum-based wax, often used in blends to modify texture or improve mold release.
- Beeswax: A byproduct of honey collection, known for its natural honey scent and clean burn.
- Gel: A mixture of polymer and mineral oil, creating a transparent, jelly-like substance for novelty candles.
- Plant Waxes: Increasingly popular for their renewable nature. Generally palm, carnauba, bayberry, or soybean wax are used, offering various textures and burn characteristics.
Here's a quick look at common candle materials:
| Wax Type | Source/Nature | Common Uses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paraffin Wax | Petroleum byproduct | Containers, Pillars, Votives, Tealights | Most common, versatile, good scent throw |
| Beeswax | Honey collection byproduct | Pillars, Tapers, Specialty shapes | Natural, long burn time, distinct scent |
| Soy Wax | Soybean oil | Containers, Tarts | Renewable, clean burning, softer wax |
| Palm Wax | Palm oil | Pillars, Containers, Textured candles | Renewable, crystalline patterns |
| Gel Wax | Polymer & mineral oil blend | Container candles (often with embedded items) | Transparent, longer burn time, novel look |
Methods of Candle Shaping
Candles can be formed using several techniques:
- Pouring: The most common method for container candles. Melted wax is poured directly into a jar, tin, or other vessel containing a wicked.
- Molding: Melted wax is poured into a mold (e.g., silicone, metal, plastic) with a centrally placed wick. Once cool, the solid candle is removed from the mold.
- Dipping: Primarily used for taper candles. A wick is repeatedly dipped into melted wax, allowing layers to build up until the desired thickness is achieved.
Understanding these methods and the diverse materials used provides insight into the fascinating craft of candle making, from simple tealights to elaborate decorative pieces.
