Candle wax- An introduction
Each autumn, cool and crisp nights come after the summer heat. If you’re anything like me, you grab a blanket and probably light a few candles. Nothing beats a warm, soothing light to remove the chill from the air. Candle making is an excellent way to increase your soap and/or cosmetic lines and bring your favorite fragrances into your home. We’ll be talking about the many waxes that can be used in candle making today and the specific uses of each.
Types of Candles
Before you embark on your candle-making adventures, make sure you know what kind of candle it is you are making. Will it be a container-type candle, which is a candle that’s poured into a container of some sort? Will it make a votive? There are a few guidelines that you can use to help you decide which type to make.
Container candles
The most popular type is container candles. A single pour or wax will be suitable for this type. These waxes have reduced shrinkage and are therefore easy to use. The wax should be heated to the recommended melting point. Add a fragrance if desired and you are ready for pouring! Container candles usually require wax that is slightly softened to avoid shrinkage. There are many options available for container candles wax, including paraffin, soy, palm, and beeswax. To avoid unwanted container melting, or burning, make sure you have the right container.
Votive Candles
Votive candles also are very popular. These candles are made using a mold. This makes it easier to remove them. Depending on what wax you choose, you might be capable of getting the desired result with just one pour. Or, you may need multiple pours depending upon how much shrinkage. Paraffin, soy, beeswax as well as palm are some of the most popular votive waxes.
Pillar Candles
Pillar candles can be free-standing. For a sturdy candle to be made, you will need to use a harder wax. The pillar candles, which are similar to votive candles in that they are poured into molds, require some wax shrinkage before being poured. It is common for pillar candles to require several pours before they can be fully poured. Three main types of wax are used for pillar candles: paraffin, beeswax, and palm. However, there are many other options, such as blends. It is difficult to get a soy-wax pillar candle to burn evenly due to its softness. Soy wax can be mixed easily with other harder waxes like paraffin or beeswax.
You Can Choose Your Wax
The main factor in your decision to use wax is preference. What results do you desire? Paraffin wax is still preferred for its scent throw. Soy wax has seen a lot of improvements over the years. Because of its many uses and natural qualities, soybean wax is highly valued. Let’s have a look at the most widely used waxes currently on the market.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax, a byproduct of crude oil refinery processes, is one example. It is refined by hydrogenation and is currently the most sought-after candle wax. Paraffin wax is affordable and can be dyed easily. Because it is low-cost and easy to use, paraffin is a good choice for starting.
Soy Wax
Soy wax can be made from the oil of soybeans. This oil is extracted directly from the soybeans. Then, it is hydrogenated. Soy is an abundant renewable resource that is attractive to candle makers because it can be promoted as an eco-friendly alternative. Soy candles also burn cleaner and last for longer, making them appealing to customers. It can be a little more expensive and harder to scent, but the benefits of a biodegradable candle are worth it.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a wax that can be more expensive but offers its benefits. Beeswax candles can be lit for a significantly longer time and have one of nature’s most natural waxes. It is also non-toxic. Many candle makers claim that beeswax candles are a natural air cleaner. There are no drawbacks in making and burning beeswax candles; however, it is often the cost of wax that drives candle makers to cheaper alternatives.
Palm Wax
There are many different opinions regarding palm wax. There are many opinions on palm wax and its marketability. Many agree that palm oil has some benefits, including its improved hardness. But others avoid palm wax because of the unfair trade practices it is subject to. Your buyers will demand a responsible source product. Regardless of what your opinion is, make sure you research the company you’re going to purchase the product from.
Buy candle wax from Aussie candle supplies, As Aussie Candle Supplies have wax for candle making at wholesale prices.
