In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, it's no surprise that eco-friendly products are in high demand. One such product that has gained popularity is the humble candle. But not just any candle – the kind that's made with natural, non-toxic ingredients and a commitment to the environment.
Welcome to Calen, a shop that specializes in creating 100% natural soy candles with amazing scents. If you're looking to dip your toes into the world of eco-friendly candle making, you've come to the right place. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating your own sustainable candles, from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the final product.
Choosing the Right Wax
The foundation of any great candle is the wax. At Calen, we use soy wax, which is a renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic alternative to traditional paraffin wax. Soy wax is derived from the oil of soybeans, and it burns cleaner and longer than paraffin, with a lower melting point that makes it easier to work with.
When selecting your soy wax, look for a high-quality, food-grade variety that's free from additives and preservatives. This will ensure that your candles are not only eco-friendly but also safe for you and your home.
Selecting Scents
One of the best parts of candle making is choosing the scents that will fill your space. At Calen, we offer a wide range of natural essential oils and fragrance blends that are designed to uplift and inspire.
Some of our most popular scents include:
- Lavender: A calming and soothing aroma that can help promote relaxation and sleep.
- Citrus: Bright and energizing scents like lemon, orange, and grapefruit that can help boost your mood.
- Earthy: Grounding scents like cedarwood, sandalwood, and patchouli that can create a cozy, grounded atmosphere.
- Floral: Delicate and romantic scents like rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang that can add a touch of elegance to any space.
When selecting your scents, consider the mood you want to create and the intended use of your candles. For example, a calming lavender candle might be perfect for your bedroom, while a zesty citrus candle could be a great addition to your kitchen or home office.
Preparing Your Workspace
Before you begin the candle-making process, it's important to set up a clean and organized workspace. You'll need the following supplies:
- Soy wax
- Candle wicks
- Essential oils or fragrance blends
- Double boiler or makeshift double boiler (a glass bowl or jar set over a pot of simmering water)
- Candle jars or containers
- Wick holders or centering devices
- Stirring utensil
- Thermometer
- Scissors or wick trimmer
Make sure to have all of your materials ready and within reach before you start melting the wax. This will help the process go smoothly and prevent any accidents or spills.
Melting the Wax
Once you have your workspace set up, it's time to start melting the wax. Begin by placing the soy wax in your double boiler or makeshift setup and heating it over medium heat. Keep a close eye on the wax, stirring occasionally, and use your thermometer to monitor the temperature.
The ideal melting temperature for soy wax is between 185°F and 195°F. Once the wax has fully melted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly, to around 185°F. This is the perfect temperature for adding your essential oils or fragrance blends.
Adding Scent and Pouring the Candles
Now for the fun part – adding the scent! Carefully pour in your chosen essential oils or fragrance blends, stirring gently to incorporate them into the wax. The amount you use will depend on the size of your candle and the strength of the scent, but as a general rule, start with about 10-15 drops per 4 ounces of wax.
Once the scent is evenly distributed, it's time to pour the wax into your candle containers. Carefully position your wick holders or centering devices to ensure the wick is centered and secure. Slowly and steadily pour the wax, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top to allow for the wax to settle.
Curing and Trimming the Wicks
After pouring, allow your candles to cool and harden completely, which can take anywhere from 4 to 24 hours depending on the size of the container. Once the wax has fully set, you can trim the wicks to about 1/4 inch in length, using scissors or a wick trimmer.
It's important to let your candles cure for at least 2-4 weeks before burning them. This allows the wax to fully harden and the scent to develop, ensuring a longer-lasting and more fragrant burn.
Burning Your Eco-Friendly Candles
When it's time to light your candles, be sure to trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each use. This will help prevent sooting and ensure an even, clean burn. Avoid burning your candles for more than 4 hours at a time, and never leave a burning candle unattended.
With proper care and maintenance, your Calen soy candles can provide hours of eco-friendly ambiance and relaxation. Enjoy the natural, soothing scents and the knowledge that you're supporting a sustainable, non-toxic product.
Happy candle making!
