Soy wax is a popular choice for candle-making due to its natural and renewable composition, clean burn, and good scent throw. However, not all soy waxes are created equal, and choosing the best one can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will discuss some factors to consider when choosing the best soy wax for candle-making.
Factors to consider when choosing the best soy wax for candle-making
- Soy Wax type
There are two main types of soy wax: container soy wax and pillar soy wax. Both types of soy wax have different properties and are designed for different candle-making applications.
- Container Soy Wax
Container soy wax is specifically designed for making candles in jars, tins, and other containers. It has a low melting point, typically around 120–125°F, which allows for good scent throw and adhesion to the container. Container soy wax also has additives, such as stearic acid and vybar, that help with adhesion, opacity, and scent throw. These additives make container soy wax more suitable for fragranced candles.
- Pillar Soy Wax
Pillar soy wax is designed for making pillar candles, votives, and other free-standing candles. It has a higher melting point than container soy wax, typically around 130–135 °F, which allows for better structural stability and less sagging or melting. Pillar soy wax also has no additives, which gives it a more natural and matte finish. However, this can also make it less suitable for fragranced candles, as it has a lower scent throw.
In addition to these two main types of soy wax, there are also blended soy waxes that combine soy wax with other waxes, such as beeswax or palm wax. These blended soy waxes can provide different properties and benefits, such as a longer burn time or a unique crystalline finish.
When choosing the right soy wax type, consider the type of candle you want to make and the properties you desire. If you are making a fragranced container candle, use container soy wax. If you are making a pillar candle or want a more natural finish, use pillar soy wax. If you want a longer burn time or a unique finish, consider blended soy waxes.
- Melting Point
The melting point of soy wax affects how well it will hold fragrance and how long it will last. Generally, soy wax with a lower melting point (around 120–125°F) is best for fragranced container candles, while soy wax with a higher melting point (around 130–135°F) is best for unscented pillar candles.
- Scent Throw
The scent throw is a measure of how well a candle releases fragrance when burned. Soy wax with a high-scent throw will make your candles more effective at filling a room with a scent. Look for soy wax that is specifically designed for a good scent throw.
- Additives
Some soy waxes have additives, such as stearic acid, that help with scent throw, adhesion, and melting point. While these additives can improve the performance of the wax, they can also make it less natural. Look for soy wax with minimal or no additives, or make sure the additives used are safe and non-toxic.
- Sustainability
Soy wax is often marketed as a sustainable and eco-friendly choice, but not all soy waxes are equal in terms of sustainability. Look for soy wax that is sourced from sustainable and responsible farms, and avoid soy wax that contributes to deforestation or environmental harm.
Popular soy wax brands in the market
Some popular soy wax brands in the market include Golden Brands 464, American Soy Organics, and Candlemaker’s Natural Soy Wax.
Golden Brands 464 is a great choice for container candles with a good scent throw.
American Soy Organics is a good choice for those who want a more eco-friendly option, and it has a low melting point for a good scent throw.
Candlemaker’s Natural Soy Wax is a versatile wax that can be used for both containers and pillars, with a good scent throw and a natural composition.
Making soy wax candles
Here are the steps on how to make a soy wax candle:
- Gather your materials. You will need:
Soy wax flakes
Dye (optional)
Spoon
Wax paper
Matches or lighter
- Prepare your workspace. Make sure your workspace is clean and free of clutter. Cover your work surface with wax paper to protect it from wax spills.
- Melt the wax. Place the soy wax flakes in a double boiler over low heat. Stir the wax occasionally until it is melted and smooth.
- Add the fragrance oil and dye (optional). Once the wax is melted, add the fragrance oil and dye (if using). Stir until the fragrance oil is evenly distributed throughout the wax.
- Pour the wax into the molds. Carefully pour the melted wax into the prepared molds.
- Trim the wicks. Once the wax has cooled slightly, trim the wicks to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the wax.
- Allow the candles to cool and harden. Place the candles in a cool, dry place to cool and harden. This may take several hours or overnight.
- Enjoy your candles! Once the candles are cool and hardened, they are ready to be enjoyed. Light a wick and enjoy the fragrance.
Here are some additional tips for making soy wax candles:
- Use a thermometer to ensure that the wax is melted to the correct temperature. Overheating the wax can make it cloudy or discolored.
- Be careful not to overfill the molds. This can cause the candles to tunnel or have a weak wick.
- Allow the candles to cool completely before trimming the wicks. This will help prevent the wicks from getting sucked into the wax.
- Store the candles in a cool, dry place. This will help them last longer.
With a little practice, you’ll be making beautiful, long-lasting soy wax candles in no time!
It’s important to note that different soy wax brands may have different properties, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions and test the wax before making a large batch of candles.
In conclusion, the best soy wax for candle-making depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as soy wax type, melting point, scent throw, additives, and sustainability when choosing the right soy wax for your candle-making projects.