My apologies, but if I'm honest I didn't measure this time😥 I added a small pinch of dye at a time, mixed and pulled out my mixer, let dry then decided if I liked the color or not. For this one in particular, I used quite a bit dye more than I usually do. I used two "fat pinches" of a dark blue dye, the dye linked below in case you're interested in what kind. Sorry I'm not more put together atm or have better advice for you, I'm in the middle of a move so I'm all over the place haha. Anyways, hope I kind of helped 😁🕯️ Happy melting, friend!
Link for the color I used: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y3T5RV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_800PEBMH4887AVPFJ684?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It is a four part 3d printed mould. I had a few problems with silicone before (bubbles and ripped off heads). Demoulding is no problem but you see the lines more than with a silicone mould.
In my experience you'll be paying more in retail stores even without shipping.
1 oz. Vanilla at walmart is $11.11
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Lotus-Light-Pure-Essential-Oils-Fragrance-Oil-Vanilla-1-oz/39453757
Same amount on CS is $9.81 INCLUDING shipping. And since the boxes are standardized you can buy two 1 oz. bottles for $12.22. You're getting twice the oil for pretty much the same amount.
That's not even counting the bulk discounts that CS has
Hello Candle Noobie! Just so you know there is no "one size fits all" wick. There are guidelines to help you get started. Each scent/wax/dye combo will need to be tested.
I don't use ECO wicks but I believe they are a braided wick that is meant to bend over a bit. When the correct size is used it will not be too noticeable when burning.
How deep is your candle? If it is over 2" deep you should NOT be getting a full melt pool on the first few burns (for most scents). As a candle burns down it uses trapped heat to finish melting the upper portions of the candle. If the candle wall is within about 1/2" it will probably melt as the candle burns down. Otherwise if you get a full melt pool on the first few burns you will most likely have a flamethrower by the time it gets to the bottom of the candle. I have a video on how to properly test burn a candle if you are interested.
For craft fair use, you'd probably want one of these:
I don't see consumers wanting to buy battery powered wax melters and if you want to offer electric or flame melters, you should showcase those products. Not much you can do about not having open flames, but...at least electricity isn't a problem.
Not sure where you are but these pots are good. There are YouTube videos explaining how to make your own Presto Pot for candle making using any electric kettle.
https://smile.amazon.com/Melter-Soy-Candle-Making-Paraffin/dp/B073R6CT7P/ref=sr\_1\_5?dchild=1&keywords=presto+pot&qid=1622762955&sr=8-5
I found them on Amazon the cheapest. I usually don't like buying from there but everyone else especially etsy shops were asking for double the price. I hope it's OK to post this link to the ones I bought. Here is the link: Metal Candle Clips
I use this one because it clips on to the wax melting pot and always shows the current temp- I used to have a meat thermometer that also worked like a charm but I found the clip on one to be easier mostly because I didn't have to turn it on, stick it in the wax and wait 15 seconds for an accurate temp read.
I bought a large tray (used for dog kennels i think). I make everything inside the tray so you dont need to worry about spillage on counters ;)
Glass Yogurt Container With Lids,Encheng 7 oz Clear Glass Jars With Lids(PE),Replacement Glass Pudding Jars Yogurt Jars,Glass Container With Twine n Tag For Milk,Jams,Jelly,Mousse,Dishwaresafe 40 Pack https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07V1CVJ83/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_2ab3FbRPR5HJP?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Thanks! I just got generic wax on Amazon with a set of dyes. I made each layer just as you would a standard candle, but let each layer set for about an hour so as not to mix the colors.
For right now I am using CandleScience IGI 4630 Harmony Blend wax. It has a great hot and cold throw. https://www.candlescience.com/wax/igi-4630
For the wicks I got mine off of amazon they are called EricX light (amazon’s choice) EricX Light 100 Piece Natural Candle Wick, Low Smoke 6" Pre-Waxed & 100% Natural Cotton Core,For Candle Making,Candle DIY https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015W8DWUO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_jD0aCbFR0BT20 But I might be switching to the candlescience wicks just to see what they are like!
This is the one I got off amazon (not an affiliate link):
Polder 510 Glass Deep Fry/Candy Thermometer with Pan Clip, 7.8" Long https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000G2TIR8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bhKjCbQ0B7R2H
I also have a temperature “gun” that I got for my leopard gecko and they both seem to agree with each other within a degree or two.
These will be the best tool you ever use to trim your cotton wicks before sale :)
HFS R Bonsai Pruner Pruning Scissors for Bud and Leaves Trimmer 6 PCS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XC45X9W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_9zv3t4Za5OhM4
I got this one on amazon: Homidic 6.56FT Long Heat Gun, Mini Handheld Hot Air Gun, Electric 300W Portable Heat Gun for DIY Craft Embossing, Shrink Wrapping PVC, Drying Paint, Clay, Rubber Stamp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P5WFHJ7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_EXgrFbC7VKE5N
I am just starting out too and I bought this kit:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B09N77ZGHR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Haven't actually tried it yet but it looks good and has lots of good reviews!
I feel so bad about this, especially since I think it was a gift! I gave them a full refund, but I'd love to avoid this problem in the future.
This particular candle size is really small (1.38” tall, 2.05” diameter), and I've been mailing them using bubble mailers (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095F77RQG?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details)
This is the first customer to bring this issue to me after mailing probably almost a hundred of them, so I don't think it's that common. But is there a cost effective way to try to avoid this? I'm looking at little boxes and paper filler on Amazon, and they all seem too big and too expensive for such small candles.
Sharing one of my favorite vintage farm tractor wax warmer Amazon shipping link below ~
New Farm Tractors Wax Warmer for Scented Wax Melts
Price: $22.95
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHSXT83Y?ref=myi\_title\_dp
Enhancing your aromatherapy experience in winter ~
I agree with all the comments saying burning decorative candles is a bad idea, however I have found candle liners like this one and they burn safely along with the candle, even the sparkly ones.
I know what you're talking about, my boyfriend showed me the same thing. They're called automatic candle extinguishers. The one on reddit was for pillar candles and I can't find any for sale but here are two I found for container candles.
Here's one on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/ALEC-Extinguisher-Rechargeable-Centerpiece-Decorations/dp/B09X1GB5DT
And here's one from Airy Fairy that will blow the candle out for you. https://myairyfairy.com/
Square braided wicks are necessary for beeswax. It gives the beeswax the right kind of structure it needs to "climb" and allows for the proper balance of oxygen, fuel, and vapor.
The structure of the square braid also dissipates the heat outward from the flame which helps melt the wax further away from the center of the candle. And because beeswax has a high viscosity, you need to direct the heat to spread out and melt across the candle so that it doesn't just take the quickest route and melt straight downward.
I like PremiumCraft wicks. You will want to get a few different sizes to test out depending on the size of candle you want to create. I linked the size #6 only because it was the first one in my purchase history.
Good luck!!!
Just Amazon! I did have to poke the hole at the top and cut down the sides to release, but it goes back together with rubber bands. So had to be a little crafty. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BC78HQFX?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I would suggest you to use wick holders.
I got this one on Amazon.
Out of the bag it kind of smells like baby powder, but not quite. I cannot really describe the smell properly. Now it still persists in the candle, despite the FOs.
Really happy with my KD-7000 here
When I'm using a candle, I rarely put the lid back on. That's because, once I start a candle, I tend to it for 2 hours each night until they're spent.
Sometimes I see candles in stores with these thingies. They won't stop all dust like a good lid will, perhaps something like this is an option for you.
I use American soy, they’re based in Canada. I’ve never used the Midwest container, but there’s a chart on Amazon that shows the difference between the two. chart
Start with a kit. It has everything you need except a pot you don’t ever plan on cooking with again.
I really like this one VYP Bees Wax Candle Making Kit for Beginners to Professional – Create Lovely Ambiance with Scented DIY Candle Making Kit - Including 6 Fragrance Oils, Beeswax, Melting Pot, Jars, Wicks & Other Tools https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XXFNFXZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1PTTN6GSCBRVVBCQE3S1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes! There are some mica powders that are made to be used in candles. This is the one I like using for my candles. I only use a very small amount of it though, if I want to get a darker color I go in with a bit of color flakes from bramble berry and then add less mica powder but it will still have the shimmery effect once the candle is melting! You will have to test it out with your candle/wick size to make sure the wick doesn't clog with the mica powder.
Mica Pigments 36 Colors Set - Soap Shop Mica Powder Set - Soap Coloring Set - Mica Colors for Soap Making - Mica Colorant for Epoxy - Mica Pigment Powder for Slimes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BR3T9MC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_5H512VKCWNTKKW3WWFWM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes so the one I ordered off Amazon has a variety of colors of mica powders! If it doesn't have a color you're looking for, it's always nice being able to create it yourself with the colors they have available but just make sure to make notes on how much of what color you use, just incase you do like the color!
I've followed the temperatures set out, maybe measuring wrong? I'm using a thermometer in the water that i'm heating, so I'm measuring purely by that rather than in the wax? the wicks I am using are wooden wicks, although not from a craft store, but Amazon.
I use This Wick and it works great
I bought this wick and it works great.
Hi! The Sticky Bumps Banana is an exact match. Here is the Amazon link! Sticky Bumps Glass Candle (Choose Size & Scent) (Banana, 3 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077F5W9B5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PM2FST0F0ZA8KNH5SKN3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Thank you so much :) I get most of the molds from the baking & soap making sections of the craft store The skull mold is from Amazon here's the link
Here you go. They do burn all the way down, and there is a thin ring of wax around the bottom at the widest part of the job. I clean them out and reuse them. I think I leave about a 1/2 inch between the lip and top of the candle. I cut the wick to be the same height as the jar.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078XBC5DM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The pots off of Etsy are great, as they usually get custom installed with a valve that can easily pour wax into your mixing containers but they’re quite pricey. I bought this pot off Amazon Canada (I am also a fellow Canadian) and it seems to have great reviews, with most of them being about candle making! I haven’t received it yet but it’s on it’s way.
In short, my recommendation will always be Presto Pots based on the research I’ve conducted, specifically the ones used for steaming with a dial on the bottom that starts at a “warm” setting and goes up to like 400. Hope this helps!
Alrighty. I wasn't trying to be an asshole, it's just that really common questions get posted all the time before ppl try actually searching, lol.
Anyhoo, I have been experimenting with this stuff the past week or so: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095NST8D7?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details
It's technically not a candle dye, but it's still pigment powder. I've been using it with palm wax and have gotten some nice results.
You might need to experiment with a few different pigment powders before you end up with a result you like though.
This kit comes with the wax pourer , wicks, wick stickers, wick stabilizers and wax … bonus you get some tins. I would recommend warming the tin a bit in the oven low temp to avoid tunneling once the wax cools. I’m a noob too… Hope this sorta helps
Kit found here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BJGS2HW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_S2MP0DKWC4R95D05Y0TQ
Beekeeper here, one of the easier ways I’ve found to clean moderate quantities of wax is the following:
Preclean: Use an old crock pot/old pan (beeswax gunk is annoying to clean off) filled halfway with water (if the comb is still in hexagons/not cleaned at all). Warm it till the wax melts and stir well, then let sit undisturbed overnight to cool. In the morning, lift out the puck of wax. much of the gunk is in the water ready to throw on your compost pile. Scrape the worst if the rest of the gunk off the bottom. You now have something that looks like dog vomit, but don’t worry.
Fine cleaning: Get an oven-safe dumpling steamer like this one. Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware, 3.0-Quart https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BOVFHB0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VPN1SJT0CE86316JRJ7B?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 Put shop paper towels in the perforated part and half fill the solid part with water. Put the pan set back together without the lid and add your wax puck to the top. Bake in the oven at the lowest temp your wax is gonna melt at (and well below the flashpoint of wax) until it all goes through into the bottom. Turn off your oven and don’t touch anything until morning again when there will be a beautiful, clean puck in the bottom. You may need to rinse it off as a little silk protein adheres I find. Repeat if necessary.
Note that low temp processing gives you brighter orange wax, high temp gets you beige. Always be very careful not to spill or ignite wax and never leave it cooking unattended or expose to heat without water/double boiler.
Shipping is horribly priced in the US as well. When I started out I used tin because the price and availability! I also used mason jars as well because I could find them at any store by my. Sadly I couldn't remedy the shipping price issue but just for an example here is tins that I used on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PCC6Y79/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_ZQWCAFK5AQ8MZPWVYDRH
Ive been using a special little pitcher I got off of amazon. It has an extended spout for precise pours. Absolute life and mess-saver.
NORPRO Funnel Pitcher, 3.5-Cup https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002YL5ZSU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_4EBHE2CAJVB3T35KYXFJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Depends on the containers your oils are stored in. I have a bunch of 3oz FO bottles from Nature's Garden, with these leakproof press-in adapters. Then you can just stick a gradiated plastic or glass syringe into the opening in the middle of the adapter, and pull out exactly how much you want with NO mess.
I use this syringe, with luer lock blunt syringe needles - I have a needle for each FO so I don't accidentally contaminate anything.
the latter has better looking tins but lacks a thermometer so if you buy this one, also buy a digital thermometer separately
i'm by no means an expert candle maker, but i have reviewed many, many different candle kits
my suggestion would be this one because it includes everything you could possibly need (assuming you have a pot you don't mind using as a double boiler, if not, buy a double boiler)
some kits don't include a thermometer which is virtually required because pouring and mixing at the right temperature is important and the jars are very nice looking, plus it comes with colors, scents, and stickers.
I got a kit on Amazon that was a good starter kit and gave me everything I needed to make six small candles. It wasn't perfect, but it contained EVERYTHING, so it was a great place to start. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093SN7231/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It was around $50 when I got it though, and there are tons of kits on Amazon.
Two part silicone mold making. I have used Oomoo and had good success with it. I used to make molds for epoxy resin. This is what I used: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BNF3TK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I got the kit for free. First time ever pouring candles. I have reviewed, it, too.https://www.amazon.com/olorvela-Candle-Melting-Supplies-Instructions/dp/B093SN7231?ref\_=ast\_sto\_dp&th=1&psc=1
I got the kit for free. First time ever pouring candles. I have reviewed, it, too.
https://www.amazon.com/olorvela-Candle-Melting-Supplies-Instructions/dp/B093SN7231?ref\_=ast\_sto\_dp&th=1&psc=1
Gulf wax is paraffin wax. I looked it up on Amazon and it's way expensive. Like $20 for only 1lb of it?!
Here's the paraffin wax that I have been using. It's $35 for 10lbs and I've gotten really nice scent throw from it. For container candles, I do a blend of roughly 70% soy and 30% paraffin.
I also make sure that the wax is between 180-185 degrees when adding the fragrance and I stir it right before pouring to make sure that everything is incorporated well. If you add the fragrance when your wax is too hot, it will vaporize. If you add it when it's too cool, it won't bind to the wax.
Also, let your candles and melts cure for a week or two before testing for scent.
Good luck!!!
This episode covers your Candlemaking space and how to slow the cooling process.
Thank you ! but it actually came in a pouring kit I got from Amazon. The only thing I really bought on Amazon. I’ll link it.
Sntieecr 113 PCS Candle Making... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X9KZCRR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Literally just the largest Presto Pot they sell. I got mine from Macy’s. I don’t bother with the spout as I didn’t want to bother with clogging, mess, etc. I put the wax into a funnel cake spout and pour directly into my vessels. Super easy.
EggMr Stainless Steel Pancake Batter Dispenser Funnels with Stand Great for Cupcakes, Takoyaki or Any Baked Goods https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FC7171B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DNJCMB7VDNTKBHZE91MA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
a system like this works well but it does take a little practice to get the hang of it
This may not be popular in this sub...but I really love my WRMK Wick.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B079XXX4L8
It's really easy to pull out and use whenever I want, and requires very little by way of clean-up. And, since it's self-contained, I can work in my craft room, rather than in the kitchen over the stove.
I buy them from Amazon but I make sure to search for candle mica powder. This is the link to the one I've been using since last year and I've had no issue with it for my candles and wax melts since I use a very small amount to avoid clogging the wick.
Mica Pigments 36 Colors Set - Soap Shop Mica Powder Set - Soap Coloring Set - Mica Colors for Soap Making - Mica Colorant for Epoxy - Mica Pigment Powder for Slimes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BR3T9MC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_171CQ7T4EH46SQTBYM4Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I'm nowhere close to being a professional but here's what I do and it has worked so far Take your candle and wrap it up in that gift tissue paper thing. I usually use 2 sheets of those. Then I used this https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07DH1MNMR/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_WQXN7WYT4ME8W3N4B2FB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 To wrap them up again. Can't remember if I did one or 2 sheets of that per candle
I filter raw, dirty beeswax into crystal clear liquid gold magic. I’m not sure if the wax you have is just old, dusty, spotty soy wax or something, but you can probably filter it really easily - much easier than I have to. Get a fryer filter stand, then add two maple syrup filters inside of it, place the filter-equipped-stand over a pouring pot. Melt wax, get it nice and hot, at least 180 F, and pour it through the filters. Gets it really spotless. Again, not sure if you’re referring to soy wax or beeswax, but if it’s really dirty beeswax, you’ll need some extra steps. the maple syrup filters are only my initial filter - i then filter through a 1 micron duda sheet filter after those.. but for your purposes, I think that the maple syrup filters will be just fine. You’ll have to replace the filters with fresh new ones depending on how dirty your wax is.
I just ordered this Wax Melter for Candle Making - Holds Approximately 6 Qts of Melted Wax - Easy Pour Valve - Free Ebook - by SOYLITE CANDLES https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073R6CT7P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_B1MMM7AG9KJSZNB50MBV hoping it helps lol
Not sure how much, depends on how hot and how long it remains hot. Couldn’t hurt to add another 2-3% maybe.
Look into getting one of these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002JM202I/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_AB24DTHH7X9PKP2FN217
They are a godsend. Lots of Chandlers use the presto. I scoop out the melted wax using a large soup ladle and pie it into the containers.
i use this wick EricX Light 8 inch Candle Wick with Candle Wick Stickers and Candle Wick Centering Device,60 pcs for Candle Making https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZZVXTXX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_489Y6ERG5XNT68VGBS16?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
​
It's $60 for the 10 Qt. You don't need the spigot version, just ladle it out or buy dollar store pouring measuring cups that hold 5 cups at once.
Is this suitable for pillars? https://www.amazon.ca/Natural-Soy-444-Wax-Golden/dp/B001QMY0RU/ref=mp_s_a_1_13?dchild=1&keywords=pillar+blend+wax&qid=1628534734&sr=8-13
Having some trouble finding stuff labeled “pillar blend” :(
This one. Saves so much time and effort, and there’s nothing to clean.
Etekcity Infrared Thermometer 774 (Not for Human) Temperature Gun Non-Contact Digital Laser Thermometer-58℉~ 716℉ (-50℃ ~ 380 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00837ZGRY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_wOYNOtZnGnu9v
I mean I have candle wicks Would it work if I put the rod (from Amazon link u put up) in the wax itself and waited for it to harden so it would leave a hole to thread the wick through?
I actually never thought about the brand.. I just bought this off eBay eBay fragrance oil
I also got this one from Amazon amazon
I don’t see a brand on the package tho
If you search it on Amazon you should be able to find it. There are many different sellers with different prices all with the same pictures. This is one of the links https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082HKTM8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_5JKQYVAP8P2TBJDXWC3B
Here is the link to the wax, it looks like it went up to $24, but it’s easy wax to work with!
So I had similar problems on another candle that i made earlier and ended up downsizing my wick to one that was suitable for tea lights! It's a different brand and has great reviews, and is the thinnest one I could find at the time.
After doing some more research, I read that tunnelling (which I believe this is) can also be caused by wicks that are too thin. This might sound dumb, but maybe I should try increasing the wick size?
In terms of wax quality, the brand has got some decent reviews, but maybe there's something obviously wrong with it that I can't spot?
I love my 8oz jars they are perfect size for me and customers I buy on amazon and they come with lids for about $1 per jar.
Some of the molds I bought on Etsy. Some were purchased used on eBay. Many of them were made by yours truly.
I bought my silicone mix through Amazon. They sell them in 10.6 oz. amounts and I like the fact that these come with popsicle sticks for mixing. They also come with safety gloves which is great because you really don't want this stuff sticking to your hands.
In addition to the silicone mix, I bought some flat bottomed plastic bowls along with some gel super glue.
To make the Brussels sprout mold, I took a frozen Brussels sprout and I glued it to the center of the bowl. I then mixed one and a half portions of the silicone mix (about 15.9 oz) in a disposable plastic bottle (a large soda bottle with the top half cut off) and poured it over the vegetable. The silicone sets pretty quickly and 24 hours later, I used a butter knife to cut around the dried silicone in the bowl prior to prying it out. After removing and throwing away the vegetable, I rinsed it out, let it air dry, and the mold was then ready to use.
I've done the same thing with lots of ingredients including French fries, baby corn, hamburger buns (top and bottom), Hawaiian rolls (top and bottom), fried hamburger patties, fried sausage patties, red skinned potatoes etc.
I'm thinking about making a dim sum candle and will make a mold of an egg roll and some pot stickers.
I got it on Amazon and I love it! I don’t think this specific one is available right now but plenty of other brands are!
Thank you! Yep, those are the jars.
I got a pack of wicks from Amazon. Not sure what CD they are. They work really well for me.
EricX Light 100 Piece Cotton Candle Wick 6" Pre-Waxed for Candle Making,Candle DIY https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015W8DWUO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_sl5cGb73B5RY8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I was legitimately scared by the temps on some of these heat guns lol... like 1200 degrees F?! I got this mini one and love it. I don’t know the exact temp it hears to but it’s hot enough that it melts my candle surfaces in seconds, but not so hot that the glass and surrounding areas heat up. But I’m still careful to not put it too close to plastic, etc.
Keep in mind that I have not put this in candles, but I have used it to decorate a couple of cakes and it behaves the way gold leaf should, has no bleeding, no colour change, and has been a great addition to my baking cabinet.
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B078TSB2WN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Most gold leaf at the good art store in my city is over $60 for a similar book.
I feel ya, I bought a 12 pack of scents for $30 USD + Shipping, then got hit with a $40 customs fee. I've heard good things about some about some of the scents you can find on amazon
Hopefully this points you in the right direction. Good luck
I cut bottles using a cheap bottle cutter like this one! It’s basically a small metal board with a set of nylon wheels to cradle your bottle, an adjustable guide to brace the bottom of the bottle against to keep it steady, and a glass-scoring blade. You can just place your bottle on the wheels lying on its side, make sure the base comes in contact with the perpendicular guide, then press slightly and slowly turn the bottle so the scoring blade scores a nice even line all the way around. Then you put the bottle in the sink and alternate carefully pouring cold and hot water on the score line until the glass breaks cleanly along the score.
You can sand the break smooth if there are sharp spots as well.
Idk if these are the same as what OP got, but here’s a link to some.
Natural Wood Candle Wicks Bulk - Candle Making Kit Wooden Wick with Metal Base - 110 Value Pack, Bonus 02 Custom Size (110 Package Value) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MFJHWQV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_y0r3Fb6GHNBBX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Thanks! I made them myself. I used QuikRete expansion cement and one of these molds: Big DIY Cylinder Resin Plant... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PS6BYZR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
One of them I did a faux marble effect by swirling in dye at the last minute. Another I did a band of "wood grain" by using painters tape to section off a line and then brushed wood stain with a thick bristled brush. Another I painted solid blue with acrylic paint. The last one I used concrete dye to dye the whole thing.
Me too! I used a small chunk of a forest green dye block. I used this candle making kit. So, I don't really know the specifics. The fragrances are cotton, coconut lime, vanilla cinnamon, and lavender.
I use these wicks from Amazon, which was a horrible mistake because they don’t fit my jar :(Oraganix Natural Soy Wax for DIY Candle Making Supplies-10lb Bag with 150ct 6'' Pre-Waxed Candle Wicks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QJ5LYLR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_.tfUFbV7GW1MZ
DIY Heat Gun 6.6ft Cable 300W Dual-Temperature Portable Hot Air Gun for DIY Craft Embossing, Shrink Wrapping PVC, Drying Paint, Clay, Rubber Stamp, Multi Function Hand-hold Heat Tools https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S368CBM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_ChNPFbKF500NF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I got. And it has a low and high setting. Works perfect for me. But I’d start out with just a plain generic one and move on up from there!!
I believe they’re illegal or regulated or something in the the EU!
My workaround has been a Soup Kettle and a ladle and aside from the pouring spout it’s pretty much the same thing!
The one I’ve got holds 10 litres and keeps the wax at a constant temp. I got it from Amazon Soup Kettle
Here in Utah they were all the rage. But it is a MLM 100%. You can find plenty of other brands of oils for much cheaper and that work just as well for candles and other things. I use Art Naturals. You can find them here on Amazon.
This is the exact one I got off Amazon and had a great experience. Looks like the price did go up $10 though.
Nature's Blossom Candle Making Kit - DIY Starter Set to Create Premium Large Scented Candles. Included Supplies: Soy Wax, Melting Pitcher, Tin Containers, Wicks, Lemon, Lavender & Chamomile Fragrances https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071ZD2BRZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UPYcCb01616JH
Definitely pick up a kit! My first one was Nature's Blossom from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071ZD2BRZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Mr.fDb8ST79N7
While it's soy wax, which I wasn't a huge fan of, the fragrances are amazing plus the pouring pitcher is pretty nice. Another plus is that the wax and fragrance are portioned completely for making one candle at a time. As a newbie myself it was a great way to see if I enjoyed the process.
Other than that, read and watch as much as you can about the process. YouTube is a blessing for the learning process. Good luck and have fun with it!
I’d try switching brands of wicks, even the ones I get off amazon cheap burn 3 inches easily. You can also try wooden wicks to guarantee they get the whole diameter. https://www.amazon.com/Wooden-Wick-Co-Original-Authentic/dp/B07JR9JGSW/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=wooden+wicks&qid=1566955498&s=gateway&sr=8-3
Hahahah everyone I've shown these photos to have remarked on the scissors! They're from Amazon, link here!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QB54LRH/ref=psdc_2237239011_t1_B07SPB7FXF
Not UK-based, but for reference this is what I use. $28USD for 40 4oz(115ml) glass jars with lids. That's $0.70/ candle, and 40oz x 40 candles = 10 lbs of wax. Here's an amazon kit for making 10 lbs of candles.
People love them as gifts and they don't break the bank.
"Candle Calculator" https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.StudioStone.CandleCalculator Or if you need even more there is "Candle Tools" https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.StudioStone.CandleTools
I use one of these to remove old wick tabs and glue from the bottom.
ABN 11in Long Reach Razor Blade Scraper & Plastic/Metal Replacement Blades – Vinyl Decal Remover, Adhesive Removal https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015D8QHEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_oV7vFb678Y7JJ
I use one of these for my soy flakes and a smaller version for my chopped slabs. The 4 gallon holds a 10lb bag of flakes with room to spare. I have the cliche "modern farmhouse" decor going on in my house so they fit in nicely :)
It stays charged a long time, and doesn't take too long to recharge. I've had it for 2 years now.
Norpro Universal Stainless Steel Double Boiler, 3-Quart, One Size, As Shown https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000DE0PF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.84jFbWTF3R6G
I’ve tried using the typical pitchers everyone uses and my batches were coming out like garbage. But with these I’m getting flawless first pours pretty much every time.
Cerakote might be something to look into.
Also- Amazon seems to have Ceramacoat: https://www.amazon.com/Wheeler-Cerama-Coat-Olive-Drab/dp/B00HTN6J7E/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=Cerakote&qid=1600087736&sr=8-8&th=1&psc=1
I’ve been doing it for about 2-3 years now so it took a lot of practice and not every bottle breaks so evenly every time. I often have to recycle several bottles that don’t break evenly during the process! I have a very good scoring tool that I’ll share the amazon link to, and I spend a good amount of time hand-sanding them to make sure they’re smooth. I finish the rim with a little smudge of olive oil to make them look extra shiny, smooth & prefect 😍
Creator's Bottle Cutter - Black... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1NJF10?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I bought these tester strips from Amazon and marked them at 1/2 inch from the bottom and 1 inch from the bottom. The mark at 1/2 inch represented 50% and the 1 inch one was 100%. For example I mixed Peach Nectar from Candle Science with their Margarita scent. I wanted to do a 50/50 blend and a 25/75 blend to see which I liked better. To do this, I dipped one strip into Margarita until the first line and repeated this step with Peach Nectar with a different strip. I let them dry a little and stacked the strips and smelled them together. That is the 50/50 blend. To do the 25/75 blend, I repeated the same steps except instead of getting Peach Nectar to the 1/2 inch (50%) line, I did it halfway in between the 1/2 inch line and bottom. To do the 75% with the Margarita FO, I dipped it in halfway in between the 1/2 inch line and the 1 inch line. Hopefully this made sense!
Tester strips: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PJ8V5C3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xQLsFbWH8HQMF