Candle making has been a beloved craft for centuries, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort into our homes. With the growing interest in DIY projects and a desire for more personalised items, candle making has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned candle maker, understanding the various candle additives can elevate your craft and help you create truly unique, high-quality candles. Read on as we explore different additives and techniques to enhance your candle-making experience.
The Basics of Candle Making
Before diving into additives, let’s quickly review the basics of candle making.
Different Types of Wax
There are several types of wax to choose from when making candles, including paraffin, soy, beeswax, and palm wax. Each type has its own unique properties and benefits, so it’s essential to understand the differences and choose the right wax for your project.
Candle Moulds and Wicks
You’ll also need to select the right mould and wick for your candle. Moulds come in various shapes and sizes, while wicks are available in different materials and thicknesses. The type of wax and additives you use will impact your choice of wick.
Common Candle Additives
Additives can improve the overall quality and performance of your candles, including hardness, scent throw, and burn time. Here are some common additives you may encounter:-
Stearic Acid
Stearic acid is a fatty acid that increases the hardness and opacity of candles, making them last longer. It also improves the scent throw, allowing the fragrance to disperse more effectively.
Vybar
Vybar is a polymer that enhances the adhesion of wax to the sides of the container, improving the overall appearance of your candle. It also aids in fragrance retention and helps to prevent mottling or frosting.
UV Stabilisers
UV stabilisers protect the colour and fragrance of your candle from fading due to exposure to sunlight or fluorescent lighting.
Colouring Your Candles
Adding colour to your candles can make them more visually appealing and help set the mood for your space.
Liquid Dyes
Liquid dyes are highly concentrated, easy to mix, and offer a wide range of colours. They’re ideal for creating bold, vibrant colours.
Powdered Dyes
Powdered dyes are more challenging to work with but provide greater control over colour intensity. They’re perfect for achieving pastel shades and more subtle hues.
Natural Colourants
Natural colourants, such as plant-based dyes or powdered minerals, offer an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.
Adding Fragrance to Your Candles
A well-scented candle can transform your space and create a soothing atmosphere. There are two main types of fragrance additives for candles:-
Essential Oils
Essential oils are derived from plants and offer a wide range of natural scents. They’re perfect for those who prefer a more subtle fragrance or want to benefit from the therapeutic properties of specific plants.
Fragrance Oils
Fragrance oils are synthetic scents that can mimic the aroma of various objects, such as fruits, flowers, or even baked goods. They provide a more potent fragrance and offer a broader range of scent options.
Creating Texture and Visual Appeal
With a few creative techniques, you can give your candles a unique look that sets them apart from store-bought versions.
Mica Powders
Mica powders are shimmering, natural minerals that can be added to your wax to create a beautiful, iridescent effect. They come in various colours and can be mixed to create custom shades.
Embeds
Embeds are small objects, such as crystals or dried flowers, that can be added to your candles for a touch of visual interest. They can also create a unique aesthetic when the candle burns, as the embeds become exposed.
Layering
Layering different coloured waxes or using multiple scents can create a stunning visual effect and a more complex fragrance profile. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect blend for your candles.
In Summary
Candle making additives offer a world of possibilities for enhancing your craft. By understanding the various options available, you can create truly unique, high-quality candles that stand out from the rest. Whether you’re adding colour, fragrance, or texture, there’s always something new to try and discover in the world of candle making.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix different types of wax in my candles?
Yes, you can mix different types of wax to create custom blends that possess the best qualities of each type. However, it’s essential to test your blend to ensure proper wick sizing and burning performance.
How much fragrance oil or essential oil should I add to my candles?
The amount of fragrance or essential oil needed will depend on the type of wax and the desired scent strength. Typically, you can add between 6-10% of fragrance oil or 3-5% essential oil per wax weight, but always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Do I need to use additives to make candles?
No, you don’t necessarily need to use additives to make candles. However, additives can enhance the performance, appearance, and scent of your candles, making them more enjoyable and longer-lasting.
Are there any safety concerns with using additives in candle making?
As long as you use additives according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and follow proper candle making safety guidelines, there should be no significant safety concerns. Always work in a well-ventilated area, use protective gear when handling chemicals, and never leave a burning candle unattended.
Can I use food colouring to dye my candles?
It’s not recommended to use food colouring in candles, as it’s water-based and won’t mix well with wax. Instead, use dyes specifically designed for candle making, such as liquid or powdered dyes, to achieve the desired colour.