How Are Soy Candles Made?
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Soy Wax
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Soy candles are made from soy wax, a pure vegetable wax that burns cleanly when the candles are lit. In terms of consistency and use, soy wax differs little from more conventional forms of candle wax. Soy wax comes in flake and block form. The wax is measured by weight as opposed to volume. It takes about 2 ounces of soy wax to make one votive-sized candle. Once the appropriate amount of wax is measured out, it is melted either in the microwave or in a double-boiler over low heat on the stove. Soy wax scorches easily, so it's never placed over direct heat.
Fragrances and Coloring
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Soy wax emits added fragrances much better than other types of wax because it is virtually fragrance-free on its own and burns without much smoke. Because of this, only scented oils that are formulated for soy wax should be used in soy candles. Other types of fragrances will likely be too overwhelming. Either solid or liquid dyes can be used to color soy wax. Because of its purity, the wax also accepts color easily. Both the fragrance and the dye are added to the soy wax when it has melted completely and the liquid wax has reach a temperature of about 175 degrees Fahrenheit. These additions should be made slowly, so that the wax isn't over-colored or too strongly scented. Often, soy candle makers use a wire whisk to thoroughly incorporate the fragrances and dyes into the wax.
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Molds and Wicks
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Soy wax can be poured into a variety of molds. It is stable, so it can be used to make larger candles as well as small. The molds are filled to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch from the top with the wax. Once a thin skin forms on top of the wax, a length of wick attached to a metal tab is inserted into the center of the mold. The tab, which rests on the bottom of the mold, keeps the wick straight and upright while the wax is hardening.
Finished Candle
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Soy candles generally take six to 12 hours to completely set. They need to remain in the mold the entire time. When the wax is ready to slip out of the mold, the metal sides of the mold will feel completely cool. The soy candle slips right out when the wick is pulled.
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