Making colored candles is simple and does not require sourcing hard-to-find supplies. Whether you are looking for a new hobby or a new career, with know-how and the right materials, you can make quality candles in just a few easy steps.
If you are wondering how to make candles with personalized colors, you’ve come to the right place. In this post you will discover:
- What you need to make colored candles
- The best waxes for making colored candles
- A step-by-step technique for making colorful candles.
What do you need to make colored candles?
Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary materials at your disposal. Here is a list of essentials you will need to make custom colored candles:
1. Candle wax or paraffin wax
Wax is the main component of any candle. You can choose from a variety of options: paraffin waxes, natural waxes and transparent gelatin, among others. In the following section we will explain the advantages of each of them.
2. Candle dyes
Candle dyes are pigments designed to dye wax. You can find a wide variety of colors, allowing you to experiment and create unique combinations.
Modern candle dyes are soluble in various raw materials and have high coloring power at low dosages. This not only guarantees stunning visual results, but also contributes to cost-savings and efficiency in the creation process.
One of the main challenges when using dyes is to achieve the perfect color without wasting material. We recommend you search for dyes in pellet or flake format, which allow for the right dosage.
When selecting your candle dyes, don’t underestimate the importance of packaging. Go for products with packaging that prolongs the shelf life of the contents and ensures optimal preservation. Proper protection not only ensures their integrity, but also preserves the quality of your candles.
3. Aromatic essences (optional)
If you want to add fragrance to your creations, you can incorporate scents. Choose fragrances that complement the colors of your candles for a complete sensory experience.
4. Candle molds
There are various types of molds available on the market, from simple shapes to some with an amazing degree of detail. Choose those that suit the style and size of candle you wish to create.
5. Wicks and holders
The wicks are the wicks that burn in the center of the candle. Make sure you get them the right size for your molds and use holders to keep them in place.
What are the best waxes for making dyed candles?
The choice of the type of wax is a crucial aspect when you want to make candles with personalized colors. Read on, as we explain the different types of wax with their particularities and advantages.
Soy wax
Soy wax is a plant-based and biodegradable option, making it an environmentally friendly choice. What’s more, it tends to burn cleanly and slowly, allowing for a gradual release of fragrances, should you choose to add them.
Beeswax
It is a natural and aromatic choice. Its natural texture gives it a rustic charm, and its high melting point allows a slow and long-lasting burn. To make candles with personalized colors, it is a good idea to opt for the bleached version.
Refined paraffin wax
It is a classic and versatile choice. Refined paraffin is known for its uniform melting point, which makes it easy to make consistent candles. Its ability to retain fragrances makes it a popular choice for scented candles.
Semi-refined paraffin wax
With a less intensive refining process, semi-refined paraffin retains some impurities. This gives the candles a more natural look and a unique texture. In addition, its low melting point makes it easy to handle.
Transparent gelatin
Transparent gelatin is a material developed for the manufacture of candles in cups. Being transparent, it is an ideal raw material for making candles with customized colors, and allows the incorporation of decorative elements that give eye-catching results.
Microcrystalline wax is known for its durability and high melting point. For this reason, microcrystalline wax is suitable for candles that require high temperature resistance, such as outdoor candles. Its microcrystalline texture provides a smooth and shiny surface.
How to make custom colored candles in 5 easy steps
Materials
- Candle wax, quantity required
- Dyes in pearl or flake form
- Fragrances (optional)
- Vegetable oil for demoulding (optional)
- Molds
- Wicks and holders
- Scale or measuring cup
- Heat resistant container
Step by step
1. Measure the wax
The quantity of wax you will need for your candles depends on the molds and the number of units you want to make. As a guide, you can fill a mold with water and then pour the water into a measuring cup or scale.
This quantity will give you a rough idea of the wax needed for one candle. Multiply it by the number of candles you want to make. Then fraction the wax according to your calculations.
If presented as a block instead of flakes, cut it into small pieces to facilitate the melting process.
2. Melt the material
Use a heat-resistant container and melt the wax over low heat. If you prefer the microwave method, heat the wax in short intervals and stir in between each one to ensure even melting.
3. Add the dyes
Once the wax is melted, it’s time to add colorants. Start with small amounts and adjust as necessary to achieve the desired shade. Use the manufacturer’s recommendations as a guide.
If you want to incorporate fragrances, now is also the time to do so.
4. Prepare the molds
Although it is not essential, you can grease the inside of the molds with vegetable oil to make it easier to remove them. Then put the molds in place and secure the wicks in the center. Carefully pour the dyed wax into the molds.
5. Unmold your candles
Allow the candles to cool and solidify completely. This process can take several hours, so be patient.
Once the candles are solid, remove them from the molds and trim the wicks to the desired length – your custom colored candles are ready to light up your space!corta los pabilos a la longitud deseada. ¡Tus velas con colores personalizados están listas para iluminar tu espacio!
Bring your creations to life with Ceras Martí
In this post you saw how to make custom colored candles and what supplies are required to do so, now you just need to get going!
At Ceras Martí, you will find everything you need to make your ideas a reality and make colorful and attractive candles:
- Top quality natural waxes and paraffin waxes at competitive prices;
- Candle dye in pellets and flakes in 13 colors.
Start your journey towards creating unique candles today! Contact us or request your free sample to learn more about our products.
