Candle Molds
When one thinks of all the different types and shapes of candles that proliferates the market as of late, then it
stands to reason that these must be just as many shapes and sizes of molds in which these candles were created.
Round candles, square candles, ball candles, sphere candles, novelty shaped candles, etc. is not strange
anymore, and in fact it is rather common place these days. All these types of candles are made with candle molds
that are usually made of metal, plastic or rubber.
Candle mold manufacturers will often suggest an appropriate wick type and size for the particulars
of the candle mold and type of candle. These will normally form part of the merchandise when buying these
candle molds. Take for example floating candle molds: these molds come in all the variations you see in candle
shops: different types of flowers, hearts, snowflakes, and stars to mention a few.
A selection of various different types of molds can be purchased with a candle making kit. With a
standard set of votive candle molds and a few floating candle molds you can really get started. However, these
can be quite expensive when bought individually. The mere fact that you can use it over and over again will make
buying a few special shaped candle molds a real investment. Then the capital outlay for the individual candle
mold will not seem so exorbitant.
In the event of making novelty shaped candles, you obviously make use of novelty molds. You will
require a mold clamp and base to hold the mold in place while the wax hardens. A further experience enhancing
method would then be to make use of a silicone mold release spray to help with releasing tin molds from the
formed candle.
Alternatives
It is not always necessary to spend copious amount of money to make real individualistic candles. Special candle
molds can cost a lot of money. There are alternatives. Just look in and around the house and you are sure
to find your ideal mold.
An empty juice carton makes an ideal candle mold as the carton can simply be torn away when the
candle cools. Old ice cream tubs can also be used. It may be useful to use two wicks if using a wide tub or pot.
This will make the candle easier to remove and will create an interesting effect when lit.
What about something as commonplace as children's yoghurt pots, or the Carton refills for fabric
conditioner or even Milk cartons. These are ideal in the sense that they can be used as a tear-away mold which
makes releasing the candle from the mold as easy as ABC.
These are just a few obvious ideas, as there are many, many more everyday objects that can be used
as candle molds - just look around your kitchen and let your imagination lead you to making great candles.
There are many, many more - just look around your kitchen and let your imagination lead you
to making great candles.
Be careful when making your choice of alternative candle mold. A terracotta flowerpot can also be
used as a mold, but do keep in mind that terracotta is porous, and thus it is essential that you seal the
insides with modge podge to prevent the flowerpot from becoming one enormous wick! Most flowerpots have a hole
in the bottom. This must be filled with mold seal before you begin.
Some Guidelines in the Choice of Alternative Molds
- Make sure that whatever you are using as an alternative candle mold is able to withstand the temperature of
the hot candle wax.
- Your mold should have no holes for wax to leak from.
- The mold should be wider or as wide at the top as it is at the bottom otherwise your candle will not
come out.
- As a rule, if your alternative candle mold can withstand boiling water, then it is suitable for wax.