How to Make Votive Candle Molds

Making your own reusable molds for votive candles is easier than you may think. Silicone is a relatively inexpensive medium for making molds. These molds are easy to make and can be used over and over again to make candles. Silicone is used to make molds for everything from candy to toys. The molds can be made using any household object as a base. These molds are nice for candle-making because they are easy to work with. Silicone RTV vulcanizes or hardens at room temperature. It consists of two materials: liquid rubber base, and the liquid catalyst that will harden the silicone when mixed together.

Things You'll Need

• Silicone RTV moldmaking compound (including liquid rubber base and liquid catalyst)
• Scale
• Votive candle
• Paper box slightly taller than the votive candle
• Plastic base
• Mixing dish

Instructions

1. Weigh and measure the rubber base and catalyst according to the directions included with your silicone compound, using the scale. Each type of silicone RTV requires precise measurements by weight in order for the silicone to cure properly.

2. Mix the silicone RTV compound by combining the rubber base and catalyst liquids until the color is even. The catalyst will harden the silicone into a tough rubber block. This will take a few hours or a few days depending on the type you buy.

3. Pour a small amount of the mixed silicone in the paper box. Place the plastic base (a small square of plastic) at the bottom of the box. This will not be removed from the mold and will strengthen the bottom of the mold.

4. Place the candle on the base. Pour the mixed silicone until it reaches the top of the candle. The top of the candle should still be visible and not covered by silicone.

5. Allow the silicone to dry according to the directions of your compound.

6. Remove the paper box and slowly wiggle out the candle once the mold is dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Silicone RTV compounds come in liquid and putty form. This tutorial assumes you are using the liquid form.

References

• Hirst Arts Mold Making
• John Greer: Silicone Mold Making RTV
• RTV-2 Silicones