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How to Make Soy Candles with the Microwave

Learn how to make soy candles using the microwave in this easy-to-follow video. You can order the supplies used in this guide by clicking "Add Items to Cart" below the supply list. 

Video Transcript

There are several different methods of melting your soy candle wax. A double boiler setup is a popular method for new candlemakers and those working in small batches, while a dedicated wax melter is often the method of choice for large batch candle making. But did you know you can also make soy wax candles in your microwave? The microwave is a quick and convenient option for melting your soy wax, especially if you just want to whip up a test candle or an otherwise very small batch.

We'll show you how.

Before getting started, keep in mind that we are using soy wax for container candles in our project. We generally don't recommend heating paraffin in the microwave. We'll need the following items.

EO Notes: You can also use candle-approved essential oils for this project. Check the recommended usage percentage on the essential oil product page and start with low percentages. How to Make Soy Candles with Essential Oils

MATERIALS:

  • A microwave-safe container. For safety reasons, we generally recommend a plastic container over a glass container. Today, we'll be using a plastic measuring pitcher, but use what's convenient, available and safe for you.

As a quick reminder, you can reuse your container for candle making, but do not reuse it with food.

WAX:

  • We're using 16 ounces (454 g) of Golden Brands 464 Soy Wax, which works great in the microwave.
  • A scale to weigh our wax.
  • A thermometer to double-check your temperatures if you'd like to be more precise. But we've found that our methods allow the wax to melt consistently, without needing a thermometer.
  • One ounce (28 g) of fragrance oil.
  • A stirring utensil.
  • Three wick bars to hold our wicks in place.
  • Three eight-ounce tins prepped with CD-18 wicks.
  • And warning labels for the bottoms of our tins.

STEPS:

Place your microwave-safe container on the scale, tare it to zero, and weigh out 16 ounces (454 g) of soy wax.

Now, place your container in the microwave and heat on high for five minutes.

During this time, you can prep your containers with your wicks.

For our project, we're using a 1000 watt microwave. The actual heating time can vary, so be sure to keep an eye on your wax, and don't leave it unattended.

After five minutes, carefully remove your container. The wax will be hot, so be sure to use potholders or a towel. If you take a look at your wax and it's not completely melted yet, that's all right. Just give it a quick stir and place it back in the microwave.

Keep heating at 30-second intervals until all of the wax is fully melted.

Once the wax is melted, place your container on a level surface and add one ounce (28 g_ of fragrance oil to the wax. Stir carefully for two minutes, allowing the wax to cool.

Once the wax cools, we're ready to pour. For our eight-ounce tins, we're going to pour up to the conveniently marked lines near the top.

Center your wicks in your containers and use a wick bar to hold it in place. Allow your candles to cool overnight. After the wax hardens overnight, remove the wick bar and trim the wick to about 1/4 of an inch (6 mm).

Then place the lid on top. You will get the best results from your soy wax candles by allowing them to cure for two weeks.

We know it can be hard to wait, so allow at least 72 hours before burning.

And that's it. You've got microwave-made candles that are ready to share, gift, or sell.

Thanks for watching. If you ever need additional help, or have any questions, feel free to reach out. We're always glad to help!