How to Make Soy Candles

Learning how to make soy candles is simple, especially if you already have a basic understanding of the candle making process. Even if you're a beginner, however, the steps to making soy candles are easy to follow and fun to experiment with.

Soy candle wax is made from soybeans.

Soy candles are any type of candle made with soy wax, rather than paraffin, gel, or any other type of candle wax. Many people prefer soy candles because of the natural elements of the wax. Soy tends to burn cleaner than paraffin, resulting in less smoke and soot. Soy wax is made from hydrogenated oil derived from soybeans, making it a natural wax that is less expensive than beeswax or bayberry waxes.

You can find soy candles wherever candles are sold, or you can learn how to make your own soy candles and have complete control of the finished product.

There isn't much of a learning curve to making soy candles, since the basics are the same as for any other type of candle. Soy wax can be used to make nearly any size or shape of candle, including votives, container candles, and even personalized candles.

Before you get started learning how to make soy candles, it's best to learn a little bit about the wax itself.

Soy wax makes wonderful candles. The finished candles are hard and strong, and many candle makers believe that they have longer burn times than candles made from paraffin wax. Essential oils, fragrances, and candle dyes are all compatible with soy wax, so you won't need to purchase separate supplies.

Soy wax can be purchased in blocks, and it also comes in flakes. The flakes are quite handy, as they are easy to measure and you don't need to chop up the block of solid wax before melting it. You can find soy wax at any candle supply store, either online or in person.

One thing to keep an eye on with soy candles is that the pool of melted wax that sits at the top of a burning candle tends to be larger with soy wax. Make sure you have well balanced and sturdy candle holders to prevent spilling this wax. Container candles are the ideal solution to keeping melted wax contained.

To make soy candles, simply follow instructions for any candle making project, using soy wax as the base for your candle. Most candle projects are a series of the same steps, which include:

• Melting the wax in a double boiler or the microwave
• Setting the wick, and preparing the mold
• Adding color and scent to the wax
• Pouring the candle
• Allowing the wax to set
• Removing the candle from the mold (if you're using a mold)

Here are some good candle projects to get you started:

• Container Candles
• Soy Candles with Essential Oils
• Soy Candle Tarts
• How to Make Votive Candles
• Soy Strawberry Cheesecake Candle
• Basic Tealights
• Textured "Grubbie" Candles

One of the nicest things about soy wax is that it's very easy to clean. Whether you're cleaning your candle making supplies, or a spill from one of your candles, all you'll need is soap and water. The elbow grease needed to scrub up the wax will be minimal compared to other types of candle waxes.

Candle making equipment can even be cleaned in the dishwasher when using soy wax. Just be sure to scrape off any hardened wax chunks first.

Candle makers all have their favorite types of wax, and for many, a soy-paraffin blend is the way to go. These blended waxes combine the ease of use of soy wax with the hardness and versatility of paraffin wax, and can be used in any type of candle. There can be differences in wax quality between brands, so it's best to use the highest quality wax you can afford.

Have some fun and experiment with different types of candle waxes to see which one is right for you.

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