Moving Past Beginner Problems
You've made a few candles. The basics work. Now you want professional-quality results every time.
Perfect Release Every Time
Temperature Is Everything
The ideal release temperature varies by wax type, but generally: cool enough that the wax has fully contracted, warm enough that it hasn't become brittle.
For most pillar waxes: 6-8 hours at room temperature, or until the candle feels cool to the touch but not cold.
The Fridge Trick (Used Correctly)
20-30 minutes in the fridge can help stubborn releases. Longer risks thermal shock and surface cracking.
Never use the freezer. Too cold = cracked candles and stressed moulds.
Mould Release Spray
Silicone rarely needs release spray. If you're using it regularly, the mould may be degraded or you're using incompatible wax.
If you must use it: very light coating, let it dry before pouring.
Managing Undercuts
Undercuts are design features that curve back under - like the base of a skull or the inside of a flower. They make release tricky.
Technique 1: Flex and Roll
Gently flex the mould to break the seal, then roll it back on itself. Work slowly around the undercut.
Technique 2: The Peel
For deep undercuts, peel the mould from top to bottom rather than pulling straight out. This reverses the mould around the undercut.
Technique 3: Choose Better Moulds
Some designs simply don't work well with one-piece moulds. Two-part moulds or flexible multi-part moulds handle complex shapes better.
Extending Mould Life
Proper Storage
Store flat or stuffed with tissue paper to hold shape. Never fold or stack heavy items on top.
Keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Silicone degrades with UV exposure.
Cleaning
Warm soapy water only. No solvents, no scrubbing with abrasives.
Let dry completely before storing. Trapped moisture can cause mould growth (the fungus kind, not the silicone kind).
Pour Temperature
Follow your wax manufacturer's guidelines. Pouring too hot stresses silicone and shortens mould life.
Most pillar waxes pour at 80-90°C. Never pour above 100°C.
When to Retire a Mould
Signs it's time for replacement:
- Tears at stress points (especially around the pour hole)
- Permanent deformation that affects shape
- Surface becoming rough or pitted
- Release getting progressively harder
Quality moulds should last 50-100+ uses with proper care. If you're replacing more often, examine your technique and temperatures.