Candle-Making 101: Additives and Molds

Once you've mastered the basics of candle-making, you can start experimenting with different additives and molds. (If you're just starting out, see part 1 of this series to help you set up a project space and start making a basic wax candle.) Additives and molds can change the look and properties of your candles, while molds can change their shape. There's a surprising variety of both additives and molds, but once you get used to the differences between them they'll become a handy tool in your candle-making arsenal.

The type of additive you use in your wax mixture will depend on what type of effect you want and what type of mold you're using. Stearin, for example, is nor to be used in rubber molds or container candles; there are other additives better suited for those types of molds. If you find you've accidentally used the wrong additive (or too much of the right one), resist the temptation to toss the wax down your sink where it will only stick and cause damage; instead, wait for the wax to cool, then toss the pieces in the trash.

Stearin is the most common additive, used widely in metal molds. A little goes a long way-usually 1 to 1 ½ oz. to every pound of wax. Stearin helps shrink the wax just enough for the candle to be removed easily from the mold. It also causes greater color retention, gives the candle more sheen to its finish, decreases the mixture's translucence and hardens it to prevent it from bending. It also lengthens your candle's burning time and helps the mottling process when you're trying to create a candle with a mottled effect. However, as mentioned previously, stearin works best with metal molds but causes problems with rubber molds and containers. These types of molds have their own additives you can use: vybar and microcrystalline.