How To Make
Cold Pour Candles

By Bob Sherman

This article was originally published in 1999 and has been rewritten, modernized, and modified for this web site.

For 30 years I re melted candles that came out like this, but it seems that yesterday's mistakes are today's hot fads. Recently, rustic candles have been very popular and this is yet another rustic style but is basically as simple as making any molded candle, so it is well suited to any experience level. The resulting candles have a random, crude, rustic sort of look that gives an otherwise plain candle some character.

PLEASE NOTE! - Candle making can be dangerous if proper safety procedures are not followed. Please read these Safety Rules before attempting any candle making projects.

This article assumes basic candle making skills. If you are new to candle making, my Introduction To Candle Making Course is free and will show you all the basics for working with wax safely.

Wax Formula
Any pillar candle wax formula should work. My preferred formula is:

• 1 pound - 140 Melt Point Paraffin Wax
• 1 teaspoon - Vybar 103
• 1 ounce per pound of wax - (optional)
• Dye to a deep color - Darker colors look best with this technique.

Pouring Temperature
This technique is highly temperature dependent. The candle shown here was poured at about 130 degrees F. Keep in mind that the mold temperature will affect the pouring temperature needed. The warmer the mold, the cooler the pouring temperature will need to be. The reverse also holds true for a cooler mold.

Controlling Texture
Obviously the texturing is somewhat random and no two are alike. The amount and style of the texture will vary with the pouring temperature. Very cool pouring temperatures will produce more bubbles. Warmer pouring temperatures will produce more horizontal lines. Experiment with various pouring temperatures until you find a look you like.

Materials
The following candle supplies and materials will be needed:

• 140 Melt Point Paraffin Wax
• Vybar 103
• Metal Candle Mold - Any size or style.
• Scent Oil
• Wick
• Dye
• Silicone Mold Release Spray - Some folks prefer to use a vegetable based cooking spray.

Step 1
A pillar mold is sprayed with mold release, then wicked and sealed as usual.

Step 2
The wax formula is mixed and melted in a double boiler setup. Depending on your ingredients, this will require temperatures upwards of 165 degrees F. Heat it no hotter than necessary to get everything melted and mixed. Once they have all blended remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Step 3
This wax is at 140 degrees F. We will need to let it cool a bit more. Note the wax starting to solidify on the sides of the pot - this is an indication that your wax is approaching the desired temperature.

Step 4
This wax has hit 130 degrees F. and is ready to pour.

Step 5
Fill the mold. Any splashes on mold sides will be visible on the finished candle, so unless that effect is desired pour slowly and carefully into the mold center.

Step 6
Allow it to cool. Note that there are just a few air bubbles. Pouring at colder temperatures produces more of a froth with many bubbles.

Step 7
Once a solid layer has filmed over the top, poke relief holes near wick.

Note: This is an old photo and I no longer recommend using a metal rod for this as shown since it can scratch the mold. Use a wooden dowel, chopstick, or even a wooden spoon handle.

Step 8
Allow it to cool fully.

Step 9
Make a second pour at approximately 185 degrees F. Try not to overflow the first pour as that will leave a visible mark on the finished candle. Allow to cool fully, then de mold.

Step 10
Trim wick on the candle bottom to just below the surface.

Step 11
Level the base against a griddle or heated pan.

Step 12
The finished candle.

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Disclaimer: The information presented here is accurate to the best of my knowledge and common candle making practices as of the time of this writing. This article was originally published to the internet in August 1999 and has been modified and republished in December 2007. The author and the publisher accept no liability for the use or misuse of any of the information presented in this article. This article is presented for informational purposes and is used at your own risk.

Author: Bob Sherman

Publisher: Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc.

This article is provided free of charge for use. Candles may be made and sold using this design royalty free.

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