Hello Kawan Mastah! Have you ever wondered how candles are made? Well, in Indonesia we call it “malam” which is a traditional candle made from wax. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your very own malam! Let’s get started.
What You Need
Before we begin, let’s make sure we have all the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Wax |
Candle wick |
Double boiler or a heat-proof glass bowl over a pot of boiling water |
Essential oils (optional) |
Pouring pitcher or a heat-proof measuring cup with a spout |
Thermometer |
Stirring utensil (spoon or spatula) |
Candle molds |
Wick centering device (optional) |
Now that we have everything we need, let’s start making our malam.
Step 1: Preparing the Wax
The first step is to melt the wax in a double boiler or a heat-proof glass bowl over a pot of boiling water. Make sure the wax is completely melted and reaches a temperature of around 180°F. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the wax.
If you want to add essential oils to your malam, this is the time to do so. Add a few drops of your favorite scent to the melted wax and stir gently.
Step 2: Preparing the Candle Molds
While the wax is melting, prepare your candle molds. You can use any type of mold you like, such as metal, plastic, or silicone molds. Make sure the molds are clean and dry before using them.
If you’re using a wick centering device, place it in the center of each mold. If you don’t have a wick centering device, you can use a toothpick or a pencil to hold the wick in place while the wax cools.
Step 3: Pouring the Wax
Once the wax has reached the desired temperature, it’s time to pour it into the molds. Use a pouring pitcher or a heat-proof measuring cup with a spout to pour the wax into the molds.
Make sure the wick is centered in the mold and is straight. Hold the wick in place while pouring the wax to prevent it from moving.
Step 4: Cooling and Finishing
Allow the wax to cool and harden completely. This can take several hours, depending on the size of the candle and the temperature of the room.
Once the wax has cooled and hardened, remove the candles from the molds. Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch and your malam is ready to use!
FAQ
Q: Can I reuse the candle molds?
A: Yes, you can reuse the molds as many times as you like. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly before using them again.
Q: Can I use different types of wax?
A: Yes, you can use different types of wax such as beeswax, soy wax, or paraffin wax. Just make sure to follow the specific instructions for melting and pouring each type of wax.
Q: How long will the malam burn?
A: The burning time of the malam depends on the size of the candle and the quality of the wax used. On average, a malam can burn for up to 5-6 hours.
Q: Can I add color to my malam?
A: Yes, you can add color to your malam by using candle dye. Make sure to follow the instructions for adding color to the wax.
Q: Are there any safety precautions I should take when making malam?
A: Yes, always be careful when working with hot wax. Make sure to use protective gloves and clothing to prevent burns. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
That’s it, Kawan Mastah! You now know how to make your very own malam. Enjoy the process and have fun experimenting with different scents and colors. Happy candle making!