How to make soy candles in the Canary Islands: complete tutorial

Introduction: Soy Wax Candles in a Glass

Vegan candles made with soy wax are gaining popularity not only for being a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative, but also for their versatility and beauty. Imagine your home scented with 100% natural ingredients, without the fumes and residue common with traditional paraffin candles. Furthermore, in the Canary Islands, where ecology and local craftsmanship are increasingly valued, these natural candles are a perfect option for those seeking eco-friendly crafts and a healthy environment.

Do you want to learn how to make eco-friendly scented candles from home in the Canary Islands? In this blog, you'll discover everything you need to know about these eco-friendly candles: from their benefits and essential materials to detailed step-by-step instructions for making them at home. Whether you're looking to learn about the benefits of these candles or want to get started making them, you'll find useful information, practical tips, and solutions to common problems here. Unleash your inspiration and delve into the world of soy wax candles!

What is soy wax and why is it better than paraffin?

Soy wax is a type of vegetable wax derived from hydrogenated soybean oil. Unlike paraffin—a petroleum byproduct—soy wax burns cleaner, emitting less soot and toxic compounds like formaldehyde.
According to a study published by the American Oil Chemists' SocietyHydrogenated soy wax (known as "soywax") is a renewable and biodegradable alternative to paraffin in candle making. Research has revealed that soy wax candles produce significantly less soot and emit fewer potentially harmful organic compounds (such as acrolein, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde), in addition to burning more slowly and requiring less oxygen.

What makes soy wax candles special? Candles made with soy wax not only stand out for their plant-based and sustainable origins, but also for their burn quality and decorative value. Thanks to their composition, they offer a clean, long-lasting, and safe fragrance experience for the home. They have also become a preferred choice for those seeking natural, customizable products that fit a more environmentally conscious lifestyle.

Why choose to make soy candles instead of paraffin candles? In addition to being a better environmental choice, making your own soy wax candles becomes a very rewarding creative activity. To achieve the best results, it is crucial to use high-quality wax. In the Canary Islands, where craftsmanship and sustainability are increasingly valued, this type of candle is especially attractive, as it aligns with the growing preference for environmentally responsible products.
In the Canary Islands, where handmade products are becoming increasingly valued, making homemade soy candles is a growing trend. Moreover, this activity allows you to customize your creations with complete control over the ingredients used, making it ideal for those looking to create natural and unique products.

Benefits of Soy Wax Candles

• Biodegradable and ecologicalMade from a renewable raw material, these candles are completely biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Their production supports sustainable agricultural practices, ideal for those seeking eco-friendly options.
• Clean and healthy combustion: During combustion, they do not emit toxic chemicals. This makes them safe for indoor use and improves air quality, avoiding the pollution generated by paraffin candles.
• long duration:Thanks to their slower burn time, soy candles offer longer burn times, which translates into better value over time.
• Excellent fragrance retentionSoy wax effectively retains and releases fragrances, providing a long-lasting olfactory experience, ideal for aromatherapy.
• They generate less soot: By producing less waste during combustion, they maintain a cleaner and healthier environment.
• Vegan origin: Being of plant origin, they are the preferred option for those who have a vegan lifestyle and are looking for products free of animal components.
• High versatilitySoy wax adapts well to different types of molds and containers, allowing for a wide variety of candle shapes and sizes.
• Easy to cleanSoy wax is easily cleaned with soap and water in case of spills, unlike paraffin wax, which can be more difficult to remove.
• Sustainability and support for local agriculture: Choosing soy wax candles contributes to a more conscious supply chain and sustainable agricultural practices. In the Canary Islands, this choice aligns with local initiatives that promote responsible consumption and a commitment to the environment.

Ingredients and Materials for Candle Making

What do you need to make soy wax candles in a glass?

• soy waxMake sure it's high-quality, 100% natural, and free of toxic additives. A good melting point will help you achieve a cleaner, longer-lasting burn.
• Wicks: Cotton or wood. It's important to choose the right wick thickness for the container's diameter to avoid problems such as tunneling.
• Fragrances: Use fragrances compatible with soy wax, this way you will get a more intense and long-lasting aroma during combustion - we explain which ones you can choose later.
• Dyes (optional): These can be candle-specific dyes or compatible pigments. Choosing natural products will maintain the candle's eco-friendly character.
• Containers for melting waxYou can use the traditional double boiler method—a heat-resistant container placed over a pot of water—which allows the wax to melt smoothly and in a controlled manner. If you're more experienced, you can use a saucepan directly over the heat, but always with caution. There are also electric melters with temperature control, ideal for large-volume productions.
• Thermometer (kitchen): Essential for controlling the exact temperature when melting wax and adding fragrances, ensuring consistent results.
• Candle containers: Glass jars, cans or ceramic cups.
  
• Chopsticks or pencils: They are used to keep the wick in the center of the container while the wax cools, ensuring a uniform and professional candle.

Types of Soy Wax

What type of soy wax should you choose for glass candles?

When making handmade candles in tumblers, choosing the right type of soy wax is one of the most important decisions. Not all vegetable waxes work the same: texture, melting point, and how they react when cooled can all affect the final result. For candles in tumblers, it's recommended to use a soy wax specifically formulated for containers. This type of wax is designed to:

• Adhere properly to the walls of the container, preventing them from coming off when cooling.
• Having a slow and uniform combustion, which extends the life of the candle.
• Minimize cracks, bubbles and shrinkage when solidified.
• Improve fragrance diffusion, allowing for a more intense and lasting aromatic experience.

💡 Beginner's Tip: If you're just starting out, when looking for wax for tumbler candles, check the label for terms like "tumbler-safe" or "low melting point." This will ensure you're choosing a wax specifically formulated for these types of candles and ensure you get great results from the first try.

Soy Candle Manufacturing Process

6 easy steps to create glass candles

Step 1: Prepare the materials
If this is your first time making candles, don't worry: this step is all about having everything ready before you begin. The more organized you are, the smoother the process will go.

• Clean the containers thoroughly with hot water and dry them completely. Any residue or moisture can affect the quality of the candle.
• Preheat the containers to 30-40°C. This step is important to avoid thermal shock, bubbles, or smearing when pouring the wax. You can do this in a preheated oven at a low temperature (no more than 50°C), or simply with a heat gun or hair dryer. 
• Make sure you have all your materials nearby: wax, wicks, thermometer, fragrance, dyes, utensils, and containers.
• Place a protective surface (paper, tray, or cardboard) where you will be working to avoid accidental stains.

Step 2: Melt the soy wax
Once you have everything ready, it's time to melt the wax. This step is key because an improper temperature can affect the texture, color, or scent retention.

• Use a heat-resistant container (such as a stainless steel saucepan) or an electric melter if you have access to one.
• If you use the double boiler method, place the container with the wax inside a pot of hot water and heat it over medium heat.
• The wax must be heated gradually until it reaches the temperature specified by the manufacturer. This step is very important because it determines the next step, the ideal temperature for pouring the wax into the containers. Do not exceed 85°C to prevent the wax from degrading or changing color.
• Use a cooking thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature. This step is essential to ensure the entire process runs smoothly.
• Once completely melted, remove the wax from the heat and let it cool slightly before adding fragrances or colorants.

Step 3: Add fragrance and color
Once the wax has melted and begun to cool slightly, it's time to add the fragrance and color, if desired. This step is critical to ensure the scent lasts throughout the burn and that the color is uniform.

• Check the temperature with a thermometer. Most fragrances should be added between 50 and 65°C (XNUMX-XNUMX°F), or as recommended by the manufacturer. Adding them at too high a temperature can cause them to evaporate before integrating into the wax. 
• Add the recommended amount of fragrance: usually between 5% and 10% of the total wax weight. If this is your first time, start with 6% as a starting point.
• Slowly mix the fragrance with a spatula or stick for at least 1-2 minutes to ensure even distribution.
• If you want to color your candle, add the colorant immediately after removing the wax from the heat source and adding the fragrance. Use only candle-safe colorants or natural pigments like mica. Mix well to avoid staining or color variations.

Step 4: Prepare the containers
Now it's time to prepare the jars or containers into which you'll pour the wax. This step ensures the wick is centered and the candle has a uniform finish.

• Place the wick in the center of the container. You can glue it to the bottom with wick adhesive, a drop of hot wax, or silicone.
• Use a support (such as a toothpick or tongs) to keep the wick straight and centered while the wax cools.
• If you are working with large containers (more than 7-8 cm in diameter), consider using two wicks to ensure even burning.
• Make sure the container is dry, warm, and stable on a flat surface before pouring the wax.

Step 5: Pour the wax
When the wax has reached a suitable temperature for pouring, it is time to fill the containers.

• Always check with the manufacturer for the recommended pouring temperature of the wax. in the vessels because this determines the proper adhesion of the wax to the walls of the container and helps minimize problems such as shrinkage or bubble formation. Also consider the ambient temperature of the work area when pouring the soy wax into the containers to avoid thermal contrasts. We'll explain this later.
• Pour slowly and steadily to avoid bubbles, and be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container for a more professional finish.
• For large diameter candles or when they cool quickly, you can perform a second pour after about two hours, filling any depressions with a thin layer of wax, about 2-1 mm thick. This helps correct surface irregularities and ensures a smoother, more professional finish.

Step 6: Let cool
This final step requires patience, but is essential to the final quality of the finished candle.

• Let the candles cool at room temperature in a draft-free area. Do not move them during the cooling process, as this may cause cracks or unevenness.
• The complete cooling process can take between 12 and 24 hours, depending on the size of the container.
• Once the candle is solid and cool, trim the wick to 0.6/1 inch for optimal burning.
• Even if they appear ready, it's best to let them cure for at least 48 to 72 hours before lighting them for the first time. If you use natural essences or complex fragrances, you can extend this time up to 5 days. This curing period improves the wax's stability and enhances the diffusion of the scent when burned.

And that's it! You now have your first soy candles, finished and ready to enjoy or give as a gift.

Maintaining Soy Wax Candles

To maximize the life and performance of your soy candles:

• Trim the wick to 0.6 cm before each use to avoid excessive flame.
• Do not turn them on for more than 4 hours at a time to avoid overheating.
• Protect them from drafts during cooling and use to prevent cracking or warping.
• Store them in a cool, dry place to preserve their aroma and shape.

Customizing Soy Wax Candles

Custom scent combinations

The world of candles allows you more than just to scent a space: it gives you freedom. You can play, experiment, and create unique blends that reflect your mood, the season, or simply whatever you want to feel at that moment.
For example, a combination of lavender and chamomile is perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere before bed, while a blend of orange and clove provides an enveloping warmth ideal for cold days.
Creating your own combinations is not only easy, but also deeply personal. Allow yourself to explore, mix and match, make mistakes, get things right, and, above all, let your imagination run wild. Essences aren't fixed rules, but tools for telling sensorial stories.

Use of natural colorants

To color your candles, you can use natural colorants such as mica powder, plant extracts or colorants specially manufactured for safe use in candlesThese dyes allow for a wide range of soft colors to be created, while maintaining the naturalness of the candle. 

Decorations with wax figures

A popular trend is to use high-melt soy wax to create small decorative details, such as flowers, leaves, or figures, in special molds. These decorations can be added to the top of the candle or embedded inside the vessel for a more intricate and attractive effect. 

Decorations with dried flowers or plants

Another decorative touch is to incorporate dried flowers, herbs, or small plants into the wax before it cools completely. This not only beautifies the candle but can also add a soft, natural scent.

Custom scent combinations

Experiment with blends of fragrance oils and aromatic essences to create unique scents that suit different moods or seasons. For example, you can combine lavender and chamomile for a relaxing candle, or orange and clove for a warm and cozy atmosphere. Or, come fall, set the mood with cinnamon, clove, and amber, and at the beginning of winter, explore vanilla, pine, and ginger root. A whole world for you to enjoy!

Common Problems and Solutions:

Tunneling of sails: Why does it happen?

Tunneling occurs when the wax melts only around the wick, leaving a ring of wax around the edges of the container. This is usually because the wick is too thin for the diameter of the vessel, or because the first time the candle was lit, the surface wasn't allowed enough time to melt completely.

Cracks on the surface of candles: Why do they appear?

Cracks often form when soy wax cools too quickly during the solidification process. This occurs especially if there are drafts, if the ambient temperature is low (below 18°C), or if the surface where the candles are placed is too cold.
They can also appear if large quantities of wax are poured at an inappropriate temperature for the environment. In cold environments, for example, pouring wax at temperatures that are too low can create a strong thermal contrast between the hot wax and the cold container, causing uneven shrinkage and visible cracks on the surface.
On the other hand, containers with very thin walls or that are not preheated also promote this type of defects, as they accelerate heat loss in the contact areas, affecting the way the wax cools and contracts.

Air bubbles in candles: Why do they appear?

Air bubbles can appear for several reasons. The most common causes include pouring the wax too quickly, not mixing enough after adding the fragrance, or using containers that are cold, wet, or dirty. They can also form if the wax is shaken roughly, if there is a sudden temperature change between the wax and the container, or if the container is not properly preheated before pouring. Finally, filling too quickly without allowing air to escape naturally can lead to trapped bubbles.

Conclusion: Why make soy wax candles in a glass?

Making soy wax candles is an eco-friendly, creative DIY project with benefits for both your health and the environment. It's an excellent way to create personalized and sustainable products for your home, fitting in with the increasingly environmentally conscious lifestyle in the Canary Islands.

Visit our online store to purchase all the materials you need for your homemade candles. Discover our special offers and start your DIY project today!

How to sell soy wax candles in the Canary Islands?

If, in addition to enjoying the DIY process, you're considering turning your passion into a business, here are some professional recommendations for launching your soy wax candles on the Canary Islands market:

1. Selection of impeccable raw materials

• Choose certified quality soy wax, as well as cotton or wooden wicks of appropriate thickness.
• Prioritize fragrances and essential oils with technical data sheets and certification for use in candles.

2. Clear and responsible labeling

• Include the following on each candle: wax type, fragrance percentage, safety warnings (e.g., “keep out of reach of children”), and estimated burn time.
• Take advantage of the labeling to tell your story: “Handmade in Tenerife/Gran Canaria/La Palma/La Gomera/Fuerteventura/Lanzarote/El Hierro/La Graciosa,” “100% natural ingredients,” “Vegan and cruelty-free.”

3. Packaging consistent with your identity

• Design reusable jars or containers and use sustainable materials (recycled cardboard, cloth bags).
• Incorporate a stamp or sticker that is your signature brand: logo, color palette, and distinctive typography.

4. Costing and pricing

• Break down all costs: raw materials, packaging, labels, electricity, processing time, and transportation.
• Apply a reasonable markup (e.g., 2–3x the total cost) to ensure your margin without straying from the local market.

5. Market testing and sales channels

• Start with a pilot batch for family and friends, gathering feedback on scent, longevity, and aesthetics.
• Participate in craft markets, local fairs, and pop-ups to validate your product and get reviews.
• Activate an online channel/social media: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and—if you already have an e-commerce business—a “Handmade Candles” section with professional photos.

6. Emotional marketing and storytelling

• It tells the “why” of each candle: the inspiration for its aroma, the connection with Canarian landscapes or local traditions.
• Publish content on social media (short videos of the process, customer testimonials, behind-the-scenes footage of your workshop).

7. Loyalty and after-sales service

• Offer discounts to repeat customers.
• Includes a small card with recommendations for use and care of the candle.

💡 Personal adviceHighlight your local origins: collaborate with other artisans (ceramists, florists, etc.) for limited editions, and join entrepreneurial groups in the Canary Islands to gain visibility.

With these steps, your soy candle project will go from hobby to a leading artisanal brand in the Canary Islands. We wish you much success in your endeavor! 🤗 

Useful Links - Materials

• Low melting point soy wax (CT46)) - Standard - Soy wax is ideal for those seeking a completely natural product. It has a lower melting point, allowing for a slow and even burn. It's perfect for glass candles, as it produces less soot and minimizes toxin emissions, preserving indoor air quality. Additionally, its plant-based and biodegradable nature makes it an eco-friendly option.
• Low melting point soy wax (CT49)) - Enriched with Natural AdditivesSoy wax: A variant of standard soy wax, enhanced with plant-based additives that provide additional benefits for candlemaking. These additives allow for greater thermal stability and better fragrance retention, resulting in candles with a longer burn time and more intense aromas. This type of wax is especially recommended for scented and decorative candles, as it combines the ecological advantages of soy wax with superior performance while remaining environmentally friendly.
• Solid candle dyes
• Waxed Cotton Wicks
• Unwaxed Cotton Wick + Wick Holder
• Aromatic Essences
• Fragrance Oils
• Essential oils 100% Pure and Natural
  ⚠ Nota: oils essential No. are fit all with Candles en Cup. Query always su use specific all with combustion. 

Important notes:
- Each soy wax may have different technical specifications. Always check the melting temperature, the recommended temperature for adding fragrances and colorants, the pouring temperature, etc., mentioned on the product labels. 
- * The percentage of essence depends on the type of essence and also on the manufacturer's technical specifications. 
- **The temperatures mentioned in this blog are general. Consider adjusting these temperatures based on local weather conditions, wax type, manufacturer, and specific batch. As this is a natural product, there may be slight variations between batches that affect the melting point or pouring and cooling behavior.

Special thanks: Thank you so much, Rosi, for your help and for sharing these valuable tips. Rosi is an artisan from Tenerife who, in addition to being our longtime customer, has worked with our raw materials and has shared some tips and tricks that we share on this blog. These tips make candlemaking easier and help our customers achieve better results. Rosi also reminds us of the importance of putting passion into everything we do. It's a true privilege to have people like Rosi in our community, who create not only with their hands, but also with their hearts. Thank you for inspiring us all!