First is the commonest variety called gel candles. They consist of gelled mineral oils, their appearance is clear and feel soft, similar to Jello. This type of candle is placed in a container.
There are also container candles poured in a heat-resistant container like tins or glass and then it’s burned inside the container when used.
Pillar candles are made using candle making molds and typically have a diameter of about 2 to 3 inches. Hence, they can have 1 or more candle wicks and they are commonly free standing.
On the other hand votive candles are small, cylindrical and typically roughly 2.5 inches high and just 1 to 2 inches in diameter. This is placed within a votive candle holder so that they can retain the wax because votive candles turn to liquid when they're used.
Taper candles are one of the most common varieties. They seem thin, although they should be wider at the bottom and they then get more narrow towards the top. They're typically about 6 to 18 inches in length and they're placed inside a candle holder. They are also often called "dinner candles".
Tealight candles are little round plastic or metal cups filled with candle making wax. They may be about 1 to 1.5 inches in height and 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
Floating candles are made using a variety of shaped candle making molds and are usually employed to terrific effect by floating them in a bowl full of water
Candle Making Tips
When choosing the candle wick, the length and size required is determined by the size of the candle you propose to make. If you select a large candle wick, the candle will normally melt faster. If pick very small candle wick, it will not produce a good light. Which means the size of the candle wick is quite important and needs to be in proportion to the dimensions of the candle.
In order to keep the canle wick straight in your candle's central portion, it is recommended to tie its end onto a stick located over your container or candle making molds.
The different types of candle wicks include the Square Braided Wicks better for molded, dipped and container candles; Metal Core Wicks better for container candles; and Flat Braided Wicks best for tapered candles.
When it comes to the color or wax dye of the candles, it is not advisable to utilize the colors used for cosmetics or soap, since it clogs the candle wick. Given that adding color or dye to your candles can provide it a more special touch, it’s better to make use of concentrated liquid or solid colors. If you’re coloring candles in groups, it’s best to use concentrated liquid. Just one drop can actually color roughly 1 lb. of candle making wax.
In coloring melted wax, be certain that the candle making wax was opaque when it was still hard or even before it was melted. It should then become clear when it has melted and is ready to be dyed or colored. This becomes clear when the melted wax hardens as it cools. It will turn unclear with its color fading.
Safety Candle Making Tips
On no occasion should you leave the wax melting without assigning someone else to watch over it. This is because wax is extremely flammable and could cause a fire.
If a fire should happen, do not apply water to try to put it out. It is best to put a fire extinguisher nearby.
Never heat candle making wax to temperatures more than 100 degrees C.
Make sure you are using a accurate thermometer for keeping track of the wax's temperature.
On no account put the wax directly on the fire while melting it. It is best to utilize a wax melter or double boiler for this process.
When handling the container or kettle with melted wax, always make use of a pot holder so as to avoid unfortunate accidents.