Candle Making Molds
Candles come in many shapes and sizes and that is one of the most exciting aspects of making candles. In addition to being able to select beautiful colors and aromas the candle maker can select from an unlimited variety of shapes, forms and deminsions in which to create the finished product.
For every candle shape there is a corresponding reverse shaped device that creates the form. These reverse shaping devices are candle molds. The finished candle is a reverse impression of the mold and the final appearance of the candle will depend on the quality of the mold. Standard candle molds are available where ever candle making supplies are sold but candle mold shapes are only limited by the imagination of the candle maker.
To be effective a candle mold must be able to hold it’s shape while the heated wax cools. Candle molds are available in an assortment of styles, sizes and materials that cater to the type of candles being produced and preferences of the candle maker. The following is a review of the different types:
Plastic Molds
These molds are very good for beginners because they are the most inexpensive and the most forgiving. They are not as durable as other types but you tend to get what you pay for. They clean easily with a little warm water and soap. Plastic molds are great for starters but it is recommended to invest in better molds if the candle maker elects to move up in the craft levels.
Rubber molds
These are flexible molds that made from silicone, latex and polyurethane. Polyurethane molds are frequently used to make pillar and taper candles. This type mold definitely requires a releasing agent and it has a odor that can be transferred to the candle during molding. They are flexible but they don’t stretch and they are usually a little cheaper than silicone molds. Silicone molds are a favorite because they are durable and elastic which makes demolding much easier and obviates the need for releasing agents. Unfortunately they are a little more expensive but the added cost is well worth it to serious candle makers.
Aluminum molds
These are probably the most popular candle molds. They are long lasting and less expensive than rubber molds. They give candles a professional look because they hold their original shape. Because of this they are often used to make pillar and votive candles. Cleaning aluminum molds is easy. Simply heat them to 150 degrees and any leftover wax will just run off. Other considerations of these molds is that they require releasing agents to get the candles to part out of the mold. In addition the mold form of an aluminum mold is rigid and cannot be altered so a different mold is required for each shape candle to be produced.
These are the three main type of molds used by candle makers today. With this information an aspiring candle maker can confidently move ahead and join the candle maker’s party.
