Most people choose to start their candle making by making container candles, but a few choose to begin with molded candles. Most often molded candles, such as votives and pillars, are a step for an experienced candle maker.
While making molded candles is not necessarily more difficult than making container candles, they do require a little bit more technique, more supplies and require more time in deciding the best use of additives and learning how to use molds which is the main difference between container candles and molded candles.
Instead of pouring melted wax straight into a container where the candle will set up permanently, molds are used to cool the candle into a desired shape and are then released from the mold. Using molds requires the use of a release agent to make sure the mold comes off of the candle once it is cool.
Candle molds can be purchased at most craft and hobby stores, however you will find a much wider selection at one of the many specialty candle supply retailers online.
Another difference between container and molded candles is the type of wax used in making them.
Molded candles use medium to high melting point wax. The waxes are typically much harder than those used for containers. When purchasing your wax, be sure to read the wax descriptions to see if it is made for use in the type of candles you are planning to pour.
Votive candles are one of the easiest molded candles you can make. They also require less wax to make than pillar candles, so they are a great choice for the beginner candle maker.
If you choose to purchase supplies from an online specialty candle making retailers, they usually offer instructions for every type of wax they sell.
Many of these sites also offer message boards where you can pick up some valuable tips from experienced molded candle makers to help you save time and money on troubleshooting.
If you choose to buy your supplies elsewhere, there are many books available on the subject of candle making that are sure to take you in the right direction.
I found a great candle making book that you should check out:
Candle Making Secrets
