Design Resource
Scented Wax Candles - Nainital, Uttarakhand
A Solid Wax Structure
by
Making Process
Paraffin wax is the basic raw material used to make candles. Some manufacturers use a combination of Paraffin wax, soy wax and bee wax for better quality. The candles are melted in a double boiler as it controls the temperature and prevents the wax from catching flame. To melt the wax first 0.5/4th of water is added to the boiler and then the wax blocks and the wax is left to melt at 50 to 55 degrees Celsius (for container candles). For standing candles, the melting temperature is 59 degrees Celsius. A hardening agent is also added to strengthen the candle to last for a long. Candle dye of the desired color is added to the molted wax to make colorful candles. Fragrance oil is added to make aroma candles. Only 15 to 30 ml of fragrance oil should be added for 45 kgs of wax. The different types of fragrances used are Bayberry, Ocean mist, Chocolate, Jasmine, Sandalwood and many more.
To give shape to the candles (metal) molds of required designs are used. A cotton thread is used as a wick, which is used to light the candle. The cotton thread is cut into the required length according to the candle size and dipped in molted wax. The wick is tied on both ends of the mold passing through (inside). The molted wax is poured into the mold and left to cool. The candle is then removed from the mold and the excess candle is trimmed and removed using a small knife. Few Candles are painted using oil-based color.
Some of the candles are called as container candles, which are stored in a container. The container is made of glass or plastic designed in various shapes. The wick is placed in the container held with a metal wick holder and the molten wax is poured into the container. Some candles are stored in a small aluminium container as well. Few candles are hand-carved. A basic shape of a candle is dipped in molted wax of different colors. This process is continued until the required layers are formed on the candle. When the wax is still hot, the craftsman cuts the layer and forms the design of them. The design has to be made before the candle cools. Once the candles are ready they have dipped in an acrylic solution to varnish the product. The products are also decorated with sparkles and other accessories to make them look attractive.
