Why Mix Paraffin Wax with Soy Wax for Pillar Candles?
Informative and education article By Kamerin of Kam’s Kandles
Blending paraffin wax with soy wax is a popular choice for candle makers, especially when crafting pillar candles. This combination creates a balance between the natural qualities of soy wax and the functional advantages of paraffin. Here are the detailed reasons why this blend is beneficial:
1. Improved Structure and Durability
Soy wax is softer and more pliable compared to paraffin, which makes it less suitable for freestanding candles like pillars. Without the support of a container, pure soy wax pillar candles can easily crack, chip, or deform. Adding paraffin to the blend increases the hardness and durability of the wax, ensuring that the candles maintain their shape and are more resistant to handling or environmental factors like temperature fluctuations.
2. Better Mold Release
One of the challenges with pure soy wax is its tendency to stick to molds, which can lead to damage when trying to remove the finished candle. Paraffin wax has a smoother texture that prevents sticking, making it much easier to release the candle from its mold. This reduces the risk of imperfections and saves time in the production process.
3. Enhanced Scent Throw
Paraffin wax is known for its excellent ability to carry and release fragrance. When blended with soy wax, the paraffin improves both the cold scent throw (the fragrance you smell when the candle isn’t burning) and the hot scent throw (the fragrance you smell while it’s burning). This makes the blend ideal for scented pillar candles, as it ensures the fragrance fills the room effectively, creating a more enjoyable sensory experience.
4. Improved Burn Performance
Soy wax burns slower than paraffin, which can be an advantage for creating longer-lasting candles. However, pure soy wax can sometimes produce an uneven burn, leading to issues like tunneling (where the wax melts down the center but leaves wax around the edges). A paraffin blend helps correct this by promoting a more consistent burn, creating a smoother melt pool, and reducing the chance of uneven burning. This ensures that pillar candles burn beautifully from start to finish.
5. Enhanced Color Vibrancy
When it comes to adding color to candles, paraffin wax excels at holding dye and producing bright, vibrant hues. Soy wax, on the other hand, can result in muted or pastel-like colors. Blending paraffin with soy wax allows for a wider range of vibrant and saturated colors, making the candles visually appealing and ideal for decorative purposes.
6. Reduced Frosting
Frosting is a natural occurrence with soy wax, where crystals form on the surface of the candle, creating a frosted or mottled appearance. While this is harmless, it can detract from the aesthetic of the candle. Adding paraffin wax reduces the likelihood of frosting, giving the candle a smoother and more polished finish.
7. Cost Efficiency
Paraffin wax is generally less expensive than soy wax, making it a cost-effective addition. By blending the two, candle makers can create high-quality candles while keeping production costs manageable. This is particularly helpful for large-scale production or for those looking to make affordable yet premium-quality pillar candles.
8. Balanced Eco-Friendliness
Soy wax is biodegradable and made from a renewable resource (soybeans), making it an eco-friendly choice. While paraffin is derived from petroleum, blending the two still retains some of the environmental benefits of soy wax. This combination allows candle makers to offer a product that balances practicality with sustainability.
Why This Blend Works for Pillar Candles
Pillar candles need to be durable, aesthetically pleasing, and burn evenly without the support of a container. The combination of soy and paraffin wax addresses all these needs:
- Durability: The hardness of paraffin ensures the candle holds its shape.
- Smooth Finish: Paraffin reduces frosting and allows for vibrant colors.
- Functional Burning: The blend creates a steady flame and reduces tunneling.
- Fragrance Delivery: Paraffin enhances the scent throw, making the candle more aromatic.
Final Thoughts about Mixing Paraffin Wax and Soy Wax for Pillar Candles
By mixing paraffin wax with soy wax, you can create pillar candles that are structurally strong, beautifully colored, and highly functional. This blend combines the eco-friendly appeal of soy with the practical advantages of paraffin, resulting in candles that are perfect for both everyday use and special occasions. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional candle maker, this mix offers the versatility and quality needed for premium pillar candles.
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