Things You'll Need:
- Candle Molds
- Soy Wax
- Wick
- Double Boiler
- Candle Thermometer
- Fragrance
- Dye
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Step 1
Melt 2 ounces of soybean wax for each votive candle you wish to make. Be sure to use a double boiler to melt your wax as it can quickly ignite at higher temperatures. Soybean wax flakes are ready to use and can be purchased at candle supply stores.
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Step 2
Clip a candle thermometer to the side of your melting pot for easy monitoring of temperature.
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Step 3
Add dye when all the wax is melted and the temperature reads between 170 to 180 degrees. Do not add food coloring or other water based dyes. Avoid adding crayons for color as these can clog the wick and make it difficult to maintain a flame.
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Step 4
Shake the dye and then add the desired amount. Stir with a wooden spoon to disperse the dye thoroughly. If needed, add more dye until you reach the desired color.
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Step 5
Add 1.5 ounces of candle fragrance per one pound of wax. Be sure your temperature reads between 170 and 180 degrees. If fragrance is added at too low a temperature it will not bind with the wax. If the temperature is too high, the scent will burn off and you will have little fragrance in the final product.
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Step 6
Stir for 2 minutes to blend the fragrance and provide an opportunity for it to bind with the wax.
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Step 7
Decrease heat to 150 - 155 degrees.
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Step 8
Warm the candle mold slightly by setting in an oven on the lowest setting. The molds should be warm, but not hot.
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Step 9
Pour the wax into the molds and fill to the top. Allow to cool until a soft film develops over the top of the wax.
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Step 10
Push the candle wick through the soft skin into the candle. Be sure it is centered. You will notice a slight indentation around or beside the wick. Simply fill with more melted wax. To smooth the top of the candle, run a hot flame across the top to melt and smooth. Be careful to do this quickly without igniting the wick.
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Step 11
Cool for 4 hours and remove from molds.
