The types of candles that can be made are almost infinite and dependent on the candle maker’s imagination. Many of today’s candles were also very popular years ago. Two good examples would be chunk candles and botanical candles. We will focus on making chunk candles in this article and we will discuss botanical candles in a later article.

The making of chunk candles is relatively easy and allows the candle maker to use excess wax from other production runs in a very productive manner.

To start, pour excess wax from previous candles or new wax of different colors into a bakers tray or cookie sheet. Prior to letting the wax completely harden, take a knife and cut the sheet into square or other unique shapes. These chunks can be scented or unscented. (For a uniquely scented candle try using different types of scents in these candles.) Using different scents will allow these candles to “emit” different smells during the burning cycle.

When the chunks are completely hard remove them from the sheets and place in any type of pillar mold. Common mold sizes would include 3 x 6-1/2, 3 x 9-1/2 and 4 x 4-1/2. Once the chunks have been placed in the mold, take a pillar wax (scented or unscented) and pour over the chunks. When the candle is completely set up, remove the pillar from the mold.

For variations in the basic chunk candle, try some of the following variations:
1. Once the chunks are placed in the mold, pour your pillar wax at a higher temperature, which will cause the chunks to streak and create a unique look.
2. Try using different types of molds such as octagons, squares and other unusual shapes.
3. Try making chunk candles in a jar. For best results make the chunks out of wax with a lower melt point wax.

What makes the chunk candle so unique is the endless possibilities that can be made with the same basic concept. The making of the chunks also make for a great use of your scrap wax.

For more information or to purchase products mentioned here use these links:
Designer Shape Candle Molds
Candle Scents & Fragrances
Candle Making Glassware

Soy Wax
Using beeswax
Candle making basics
Candle making vocabulary
Candle making safety
What's new in candle making
Importance of temperature
Mold techniques
Polycarbonate molds
Choosing colors
All about waxes
Wax 101
Blended versus non-blended waxes
Palm Wax
Natural wax
Whipped wax
All about wicks
Protecting your candles from the sun
Using UV absorbers
Making a chunk candle
Making double pour candles
Making white candles white
Making crackled candles
Selecting the proper sustaining base

Click here for great links to other candle making and craft sites.

More questions? Contact us:
info@letsmakecandles.com

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