How to Make Soy Candles

Paraffin candles, which are petroleum based, produce carbon dioxide and other pollutants when burned. Soy candles are clean-burning natural candles and thus, are environment friendly. These candles lack the production of black soot, which traditional paraffin candle create in abundance. These candles burn at a slow rate and at a lower temperature. It lasts 50% longer than the paraffin candles. The scent that soy candles fill the surrounding with, is cleaner and comfortable to the senses. This is not the case with paraffin candles, most of which, give headache. One more important benefit of using soy candles goes to the farmers who are indulged in the growth of soy beans. Moreover, they are cost-effective and can be made with ease at home itself.

Step By Step Process for Making Soy Candles

Materials you would require:

• 2 ounces of soy wax for each candle (available in block and flake form)
• Double boiler (for melting the wax)
• Candle mold
• Wax dye and fragrance oil
• A cotton wick

Instructions:The reason behind using a double boiler is that they can quickly ignite at higher temperatures. Use soy wax in the flake form, as it is ready to use and can be purchased at candle supply stores. When the wax has completely melted, remove it from heat and add the wax dye. Water based dyes, crayons or food coloring must be avoided, as these elements might clog the candle wick and keep the candle from maintaining a good flame.

Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture of the wax and the dye. This will help in dispersing the dye thoroughly. The candle fragrance (1.5 ounces), must be added per pound of wax. The temperature must be maintained at around 170 - 180 degrees. If the fragrance is added at a temperature below than this, it might not bind the wax. On the other hand, if it is added when the temperature is higher than what is required, the scent may burn off, leaving the candle less of the fragrance.

Keep stirring the mixture, so that the fragrance blends well and binds the wax. Now, preheat the jar and ensure that it is warm, but not hot. Fill the molds with the melted wax to the top and allow it to cool, until you see a soft film getting developed over the top of the wax. Position the candle wick and ensure that it is at the center. If you see the occurrence of a slight indentation beside the wick, refill it with more melted wax. Swiftly run a hot flame across the top of the candle to give a smooth finish. After a few hours, when the wax has turned solid, remove from molds and trim the wick to 1/2 inch.

You can also make soy candles with essential oils, using the same process as above. Simply use the oil instead of the fragrance oil. So, as you got an overview about the major benefits of using soy candles and the drawbacks of paraffin candles, I am sure you will opt for a cleaner and healthier option. So light them, flaunt them and enjoy their 'almost' smokeless flame!