Soy Candles - What's the Story?

Soy Candles - What's the Story?
By Christopher J

Beeswax and paraffin are the more common content of candles but there is a replacement coming about . Soy candles are starting to become much more the type of candle to purchase. Michael Richards invented soy candles in 1992 because it was found to be cheaper and much better in comparison to beeswax.

Adding scents to soy has turned into a well received idea as the aroma combined with the soy produces candles that take longer to burn and also burns without that burnt smell. This makes for a very high quality candle over the standard paraffin ones. Soy candles are becoming very popular now that you can find standard candles in your local department store. Specialty candles are available at finer boutiques and gift shops.

What are the pluses of using soy candles The difference between paraffin and soy are very plain to see: between the best quality premier beeswax and the cheap smoky paraffin candles soy wax is right in the middle. It is all natural and totally recyclable, enviromentalists have given soy a thumbs up and prefer that you purchase them.

The main reason soy candles are preferred is because, unlike paraffin which is derived from oil , they are 100% natural. They are also favorable in the price range compared to beeswax and they also burn twice as long compared to paraffin.

All that soot coming from paraffin candles is reduced considerably when compared to soy. It actually reduces the amount of soot by approximately 90%. Why keep ingesting the soot from paraffin into your lungs when there is an alternative that is much more healthy.

Did you know that some insurance corporations will not cover sickness or death related claims from the inhalation of soot? Another great reason to switch from paraffin to soy candles is due to the fact that scents added will fill the air much quicker.

Are people joining the soy candle revolution? Some soy candle retailers have offered a few words; they claim soy, beeswax and gel candles are selling in more abundance than the paraffin mostly due to the facts they are healthier expecially to those with breathing problems, non-toxic and easy to clean up after.

They are also safer for our children as paraffin can cause some major burns, remember, they are made from petroleum, almost like burning gasoline. After reading all this why would you not replace those paraffin candles... the reasons are all there.

Soy Candles - are they beneficial for everyones health? Want to know more about these candles and their story? Try visiting Types of Candles.com Learn more and see what is available when it comes to candles. Types of Candles.com will help you along the way.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_J

Soy Candles - What's the Story?

Making Soy Candles the Easy Way!

Making Soy Candles the Easy Way!
By Pj Hall

People choose soy candles for many good reasons. When looking at making candles you will find that soy candles are earth friendly and a renewable resource. What better reasons than these to make this type of candles? All candles produce some soot but soy candles tend to produce less than most. Soy candles are also known to last longer than most conventional candles. Soy candle wax is produced in the United States.

Equipment and Supplies for Making Soy Candles

The type of equipment and supplies you will need to make your soy candles depend on what style you want. You can make pillar type candles, tarts for burners, or container candles.

Container candles are the easiest to make and is the one that will be covered here. The nice thing about using soy wax is that it cleans up well with soap and water.

What You Will Need

You will need a microwave safe container, preferably a microwave safe glass measuring cup to hold and melt your wax, wicks, and a clean container to put your candle in. There are fragrances and dyes specifically for soy wax candles. If you desire these, then make sure you have them ready when creating your candle. A word of caution here, be sure to buy high quality oils that are strong and are specifically for soy candles!

You will also need a wooden spoon, potholders and a clean dry container to put your candle into. Soy wax comes in soft block or in flakes. The best way to purchase this type of wax is in flakes, this allows you to measure the amount of wax needed for different projects.

You are Ready to Create

Now you are ready to go. You have everything together, but how do you know how much wax you will need to melt? By using the microwave safe measuring cup, and by knowing the amount of liquid your container holds you will know the amount of soy wax that you need to melt. If it is a 14 oz. container then you will need approximately 13 oz of melted wax.

Melt the wax in the microwave. Start with a few minutes and continue to check until all the soy wax is melted. During the melting process, if you see you are going to need more wax, then add it to what is already melting. Be sure that all the wax is melted.

While the wax is melting take the wick and place the metal portion into the bottom of your container with just a bit of hot glue. This will adhere quickly so you can use a pencil to keep the wick centered by wrapping a small portion of the wick around the pencil. Secure the pencil to the container.

Once the right amount of wax is melted add the dye and stir to mix well. You may then add your fragrance according to the manufactures suggestions. Once all is mixed pour slowly into your container. Be sure that the wick stays to the center for an even burning candle.

You have just created your first earth friendly and beautiful soy candle. You are ready to make some as gifts so that others may enjoy these wonderful candles. Don't forget to add a little note about clean up for the container after the candle has been used, and about how soy candles are earth friendly!

PJ Hall is a professional writer who provides tips and information on soy candles for Candles 4U - your guide to candles online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pj_Hall

Soy Candles, making soy candles