How To Make Pillar Candles
Pillar candles add an elegant touch to any home décor and can be customized to match your personal style. Making your own pillar candles is not only rewarding but also allows you to create unique designs while saving money. This article will guide you through the process of making beautiful pillar candles from scratch, with expert tips to ensure success.
Materials You’ll Need
Before starting your candle-making project, gather these essential supplies:
– Pillar candle wax (paraffin, beeswax, or soy wax blends)
– Pillar candle molds (metal, plastic, or silicone)
– Candle wicks suitable for pillar candles
– Wick sustainer tabs
– Wick centering devices
– Fragrance oils (optional)
– Candle dye (optional)
– Double boiler or melting pot
– Thermometer
– Stirring utensil (wooden or silicone)
– Scissors
– Heat-resistant pouring container
– Mold release spray (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Mold
Proper mold preparation is crucial for successful pillar candles:
– Clean your mold thoroughly to remove any dust or residue
– Apply mold release spray if using metal or rigid plastic molds
– Attach the wick sustainer tab to one end of your wick
– Place the wick in the center of your mold, with the sustainer tab at the bottom
– Secure the top of the wick with a centering device or by tying it to a pencil laid across the top of the mold
2. Melt Your Wax
The wax melting process requires careful attention:
– Place your wax in a double boiler or melting pot
– Heat the wax slowly to 180-185°F (82-85°C) for paraffin, or follow temperature guidelines for your specific wax type
– Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature closely
– Avoid overheating, which can discolor the wax or create fire hazards
3. Add Color and Fragrance (Optional)
Customize your candles with color and scent:
– Once the wax is fully melted, remove from heat
– Allow the wax to cool to 175°F (79°C) before adding fragrance oil
– Add fragrance oil according to manufacturer’s recommendations (typically 6-10% of wax weight)
– Stir gently for 1-2 minutes to fully incorporate
– Add candle dye and stir until completely dissolved
4. Pour the Wax
Pouring technique affects the final appearance of your candle:
– Let the wax cool to the recommended pouring temperature (usually 160-170°F or 71-77°C)
– Pour slowly into the prepared mold, being careful not to disturb the wick
– Leave about 1/4 inch space at the top of the mold
– Tap the sides of the mold gently to release any air bubbles
5. Address Sinkholes
Pillar candles often develop sinkholes as they cool:
– Keep some reserved melted wax at pouring temperature
– As the candle cools, a sinkhole may form around the wick
– When the wax has partially set but still has a depression, pour additional wax to fill the sinkhole
– You may need to repeat this process 2-3 times
Curing and Finishing Your Pillar Candle
1. Allow Proper Cooling Time
Patience during cooling ensures a quality candle:
– Let your candle cool completely at room temperature (usually 24 hours)
– Avoid moving or disturbing the candle during this time
– Resist the urge to refrigerate or freeze the candle, as this can cause cracking
2. Remove from the Mold
Careful removal preserves your candle’s shape:
– Once completely cool, gently pull the sides of a flexible mold away from the candle
– For rigid molds, place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help the candle contract
– Tap the bottom of the mold gently or blow warm air around the outside to help release
– Pull the candle out slowly and carefully
3. Trim the Wick
Proper wick length is important for burning:
– Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the candle surface
– This helps ensure a clean, even burn when you light your candle
4. Cure the Candle
Curing improves burning quality:
– Allow pillar candles to cure for at least 48 hours before burning
– This gives time for the fragrance to bind with the wax and for the candle to fully set
– Store in a cool, dry place during curing
Troubleshooting Common Pillar Candle Issues
Splitting or Cracking
If your pillar candles develop cracks:
– This is often caused by cooling too quickly
– Ensure you’re cooling candles at room temperature
– Check if you’re using the correct wick size – over-wicking can cause splitting
– Maintain a 5-10mm wall thickness around the burning well
Uneven Burning
For candles that burn unevenly:
– Make sure you’re using the correct wick size for your candle diameter
– Ensure the wick remains centered during pouring and cooling
– Always burn pillar candles long enough for the melt pool to reach the edges
Air Bubbles
To prevent unwanted air bubbles:
– Pour wax at the correct temperature
– Tap the mold gently after pouring
– Heat the mold slightly before pouring
– Pour slowly and steadily
Creative Variations for Pillar Candles
Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, try these creative options:
– Layered candles: Pour different colored wax in layers, allowing each to partially set before adding the next
– Embedded objects: Add dried flowers, herbs, or decorative elements between wax layers
– Textured candles: Create textured exteriors using specialized molds or by pressing textures into the semi-cooled wax
– Multi-wick designs: Use multiple wicks for larger diameter candles to ensure even burning
Safety Considerations
Always prioritize safety when making candles:
– Never leave melting wax unattended
– Keep a fire extinguisher nearby
– Work in a well-ventilated area
– Keep children and pets away from your workspace
– Test burn your candles before giving as gifts
– Follow all safety guidelines for your specific wax type
Making pillar candles is a rewarding craft that combines science and creativity. With practice, you’ll develop your own techniques and signature styles. Remember that candle making is partly art and partly science – don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect. Each candle you make will improve your skills and understanding of the process.
Whether you’re creating candles for your home, as gifts, or to sell, these timeless decorative items bring warmth and ambiance to any space. Enjoy the process of creating something beautiful and functional with your own hands!