Making Candles With Polyurethane Molds

Polyurethane molds are extremely tough, flexible candle molds that are used by candle companies of all sizes. These durable molds provide countless pours. Polyurethane molds are made from one piece with a slit down the side. The wick is inserted through a wick hole at the bottom of the mold, so no plug is necessary. The finished candles are extremely detailed – more like sculptures than candles!

Equipment and Materials Needed:

• Newspaper
• Double boiler
• A pouring pot
• Candy thermometer
• Wick wire
• Spoon, ladle, or paring knife
• Large bobby pins to hold wicking in place
• Wick or ribbon for single sided molds
• Pot holders

Melting the Wax

See instructions on melting candle wax.

Using the Mold

Notice the “T” pin on the bottom of each mold. The “T” pin is inserted in the hole where the wick will go through. Use a knitting needle to assist in positioning the wick in the mold. Leave a long portion of wick out the bottom of the mold, then, each time you remove the candle from the mold, you will draw up the wick and re-wick the mold. Most polyurethane molds have a split on the side to make removal of the candle easy. Your molds should come with rubber bands to hold the seam(s) together. Use a large bobby pin to hold your wick in the center of the mold.

Allowing the Wax to Harden

Allow the wax to harden before attempting to remove the candle from the mold. The time required will vary, depending on the size of the mold. Remove the rubber bands and bobby pin, carefully open the mold and remove the candle. Trim the wick approximately ¼” from the top. If needed, shave off any seams with a paring knife.

Get more candle information from the National Candle Association.