Double boilers are extremely practical when used in candle making because they help to control heat and keep candle wax away from open flames.
Candle wax is highly flammable, so it is very important to use caution when heating it. Wax will spontaneously combust when it reaches its flash point. A flash point is the temperature at which the wax will burst into flames. Double boilers enable you to safely heat candle wax to the desired temperature by keeping the pot, which contains the wax, out of direct contact with the heat source.
Special candle wax melters are available that are designed for use in making candles. Wax melters are very expensive and are generally useful if you need to produce a large volume of candles. For most candle making projects, double boilers work just as well and are much more cost effective.
Double boilers range in price from the inexpensive, for basic double boilers, to the more expensive double boilers that come with extra features. Double boiler features can include non-stick surfaces, porcelain inserts, rolled edges for easier pouring, stay-cool handles,and extra inserts.
Double boilers can be purchased at reasonable prices at many department stores and discount chains, as well as online. Many craft supply companies sell double boilers specifically for use in candle making projects. Double boilers are often designed to be oven proof and dishwasher safe. Look for a double boiler that has a tempered glass lid to enable you to safely view the contents of the boiler while your are heating it.
Some candle making supply companies sell small melting and steamer pots for melting wax by double boiling. The melting pot, containing the candle wax, is placed inside the larger steamer pot, to melt the desired amount of candle wax.
A double roaster can also be used as a double boiler for the purpose of candle making. The inner pans of most double roasters can be pulled out and you can pour water into the bottom of the roaster. Many double roasters even offer built in temperature control.
If you do not wish to buy a double boiler, you can improvise by placing a small pan inside a larger pan. You will then add water to the bottom pan and heat the water to a boil. Be careful to continue adding water to the bottom pan, as needed, since water can boil away rather quickly.
Remember to make safety your top priority when melting candle wax. Always use a double boiler. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it. A wax fire should never be extinguished using water. When wax catches fire it behaves like an oil fire and needs to be smothered or chemically extinguished. Do not allow the water in the double boiler to dry up. Allowing the water to dry up may result in the wax getting too hot. Always learn the flash point of the type of wax you plan to use before heating it. Last but not least, never leave wax unattended while you are melting it.
