Candle making is a popular and fun hobby. By following
these guidelines and precautions you can have an enjoyable
experience with candle making.

The best way to melt and maintain the temperature of your
wax is by using a double boiler. The water temperature
should not go above 212~.  The top pot of the double boiler
is called the pouring pot, this will contain the wax for
melting. This pot should never touch the heat source
directly. This reduces the danger of fire.

Choose a pot, large enough to hold the pouring pot, for the
bottom of the double boiler.  Add 1 to 2 inches of water to
the bottom and bring it to a boil. The pouring pot should
sit inside the large pot and not touch the bottom of the
bigger pot.  Place a metal ring under it to help if you
need. After the water comes to a boil, reduce the
temperature of the water. It is not necessary to boil the
water rapidly. Add water as necessary, as the water boils
off. Melt the wax in the pouring pot check the temperature
so as not to exceed the proper temperature for the type of
wax you are using.

Metal pillar molds are the most common types of candles.
There are different shapes and sizes you can choose for
making these candles. Besides the different shapes and
sizes the molds are fabricated aluminum and sheet metal.
Some are even made of silicone, latex and plastic. Sheet
metal and aluminum molds are very strong and long lasting
which can last for many years with least maintenance. The
candle will slide out from the mold when cooled if you keep
it in a refrigerator for around 15 minutes so that it will
slide out easily. Cooling allows the candle to separate
from the mold. Place your candle on a cookie sheet to level
the base of the candle.

There are some safety measures to take when candle making.
Always have a fire extinguisher handy at hand. Never use
water to put out a wax fire, it is like an oil fire.  Never
leave the wax unattended.  The temperature raises quickly,
making it more likely to catch fire, once it is liquid.
Make it a habit to monitor your wax closely.  If the wax
gets above the 300~ flash point the vapors are quite
flammable.  Try to keep it below 250~. Prevent dangerous
temperatures by using the double boiler. A safe heating
source is electricity as flames may ignite the wax vapors
more easily. Lastly, use a thermometer to monitor the wax's
temperature.

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