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HOW TO CREATE TALLOW CANDELS WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Tallow, a natural byproduct of rendering animal fat, offers a clean, long-lasting burn and a unique aesthetic. By infusing these candles with your favorite essential oils, you can create personalized fragrances that promote relaxation, focus, or simply enhance your ambiance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of creating your own tallow candles, from selecting the right materials to blending essential oils.

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Candles have a unique way of transforming any space into a relaxing haven. Whether I’m preparing a meal, working at my computer, or indulging in a spa day at home, I love lighting a candle to set the mood.

There’s just something about the calming atmosphere candles create – they’re a staple in my home. And even during the seasons when I don’t burn them as often, they’re always handy in case of a power outage.

Living naturally often means letting go of your favorite commercial candles. But with this easy tallow candle recipe with essential oils, you can make your own toxin-free candles at home! It’s simpler than you think.

Ready to create your own chemical-free candles? Keep reading to learn how…

What are tallow candles?

Tallow candles are made from tallow, an age-old ingredient used in candle-making for thousands of years. Unlike modern commercial candles, which can release harmful toxins into the air, tallow candles provide a healthier, natural alternative.

Many people aren’t aware, but commercial candles often contain toxic chemicals that, when burned, release harmful fumes into the air, affecting the health of you and your family (source). To maintain a chemical-free home, I choose to use only pure, high-quality candles made from tallow—one of my favorite ingredients.

Tips in making tallow candles with essential oils

Making candles doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this simple recipe, you can easily create dozens of tallow candles in just a few minutes.

Here are some helpful tips for making the best tallow candles:

  • Scenting your candles: Adding fragrance is totally up to you. If you’re making candles purely for decoration or light, you may want to skip fragrances altogether. If you’d like to add a scent, be sure to use only pure, natural essential oils. I recommend essential oils from trusted brands like Plant Therapy for the best quality.
  • Lubricating your molds: Before pouring in the tallow, remember to lubricate the candle molds with an oil such as coconut or olive oil. This ensures the candles come out smoothly once they’re set.
  • Choosing the right wick: It’s important to choose the right wick for your candles. Look for organic cotton wicks that are coated with beeswax, if possible. Some commercial wicks contain chemicals, so be mindful of what you use. My personal favorite are beeswax-coated organic cotton wicks.
  • Extra candles for gifting: I always make a few extra candles to have on hand as last-minute gifts. They’re perfect for hostess gifts or adding to a holiday gift basket.

Now that you’ve got my top tips, keep reading for step-by-step instructions to make your own tallow candles!

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Making tallow candles with essential oils is one of my favorite activities. Not only do they help create a peaceful environment, but making them is also a fun and easy craft that you can complete in just an afternoon. Here’s how you can make your own:

INGREDIENTS:

  • Grass-fed beef tallow (from leaf fat; soft tallow from trim fat won’t be hard enough)
  • Essential oils (60 drops per cup of tallow)
  • Coconut oil or olive oil (to help with pouring consistency)
  • Wicks (cotton wicks are a great choice)
  • Glass jar or candle mold (for shaping your candles)

GLASS JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Melt the tallow: Gently heat the pure tallow in a saucepan until it turns into a liquid. Be sure to do this on low heat to avoid burning it.
  • Cool the tallow: Allow the melted tallow to cool down a bit, but don’t let it solidify yet.
  • Add essential oils: Once the tallow has cooled slightly, add 60 drops of essential oils per cup of tallow. Stir well to ensure the oils are fully mixed in.
  • Prepare the wick: Secure the wick by placing a clothespin on the top of the glass jar, letting the wick hang down into the center of the jar.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Carefully pour the tallow mixture into the glass jar, making sure not to disturb the wick. Leave some space at the top of the jar.
  • Let it cool: Allow the candle to set and cool at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
  • Trim the wick: Once the candle has fully solidified, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the tallow.
  • Light and enjoy: Your candle is now ready to be lit and enjoyed!

PILLAR JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Lubricate the mold: Use coconut or olive oil to lightly lubricate the inside of the candle mold. This will help you remove the candle once it’s solidified.
  • Thread the wick: String the wick through the center of the candle mold, leaving extra length to trim later. Use a clothespin to hold the wick upright at the top of the mold.
  • Leave space at the tip: When pouring the tallow, leave some space at the tip of the mold to allow room for any expansion.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Pour the liquid tallow into the mold, filling it up to your desired height.
  • Let it set: Allow the candle to cool and solidify at room temperature.
  • Remove the candle: Once the candle is completely solid, carefully remove it from the mold. Trim the wick to your desired length.
  • Light and enjoy: Your pillar candle is ready to be lit and will provide a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

What supplies do you need for candle making?

Surprisingly enough, making your own tallow candles doesn’t require a lot of equipment. When using tallow, you can easily melt it on your stove and start crafting right away. Here’s a quick list of the supplies you’ll need:

SUPPLIES FOR TALLOW CANDLES

  • Glass jars (Make sure they are thick, like mason jars, to prevent the glass from shattering due to heat)
  • Natural wick (Cotton or beeswax-coated wicks are great)
  • Essential oils (Choose your favorite natural oils to scent the candle)
  • Clothespin (To hold the wick in place while the candle sets)
  • Candle mold (If you’re making pillar candles, here’s a great option for that)

MELTING THE TALLOW

The most time-consuming part of the entire candle-making process is melting the tallow. You’ll want to heat it gently on the stove over low heat, as it can take some time to fully melt, depending on the amount you’re using. But don’t worry — once it’s melted, the rest of the process is quick and easy!

Keep reading to learn more about the step-by-step process for melting tallow and making your own candles!

How long does it take to melt tallow?

Tallow is the hard fat found around the organs of animals, and it has countless uses, making it one of my favorite ingredients for a natural living lifestyle. Beyond making candles, you can use tallow in cooking, such as for frying or baking pie crusts, or even for crafting projects like the homemade candles featured in this article.

If you want to make your own tallow, it’s easy to render it using just a crock pot! Rendering tallow at home typically takes several hours, depending on how much you’re melting. For example, it takes about 5-6 hours to fully melt around 4 quarts of tallow. This method is simple and efficient, and it ensures you’re getting pure, high-quality tallow for all your DIY projects.

How much tallow should you melt?

When it comes to rendering tallow, I like to melt as much as I can — or as much as my crock pot will hold. That way, I can make my candles in batches and have some extra tallow for other projects or even gifts.

Tallow is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to use it beyond making candles. Here are a few ideas for utilizing your tallow:

  • Make skincare products: Tallow is fantastic for creating nourishing lotions, balms, and soaps. (Check out this complete guide to tallow skincare for more details.)
  • Season your cast iron skillets: Use tallow to season your cast iron cookware, giving it a non-stick surface and helping it last longer.
  • Cook with it: Tallow has a high smoke point, making it great for frying, sautéing, or baking.
  • Condition leather: Tallow works wonders as a leather conditioner, keeping your leather goods supple and protected.

Honestly, if I had to choose one thing to take with me to a deserted island, tallow would definitely be on the list. It’s just that useful!

What are the best essential oils to add in a tallow candle?

One of the things I truly love about candles is how the right scent can completely transform the atmosphere of a room. Here are a few of my favorite scents for my homemade candles:

  • Lavender: A calming and soothing fragrance, perfect for relaxation.
  • Chamomile: A gentle, floral aroma that creates a peaceful, comforting environment.
  • Frankincense: A rich, resinous scent that adds depth and warmth, ideal for meditation or grounding.
  • Vetiver: Earthy and grounding, this scent is great for creating a serene and tranquil space.
  • Tranquil Synergy: A calming blend of essential oils that promotes relaxation and peace.
  • Relax Synergy: A comforting mix that soothes the mind and body, perfect for unwinding.

It’s also crucial to highlight the importance of using pure essential oils. Personally, I only use Plant Therapy essential oils in my home. They are known for their high-quality oils, sourced from the best plants. When it comes to candles, you want to ensure you’re using oils that are free from toxic chemicals, as many commercial oils can contain harmful substances. By choosing pure oils, you’ll get the best scent possible and avoid introducing any harmful chemicals into your home. This will not only improve the scent of your candles but also make your environment healthier and safer.

How long do tallow candles last?

The longevity of your homemade tallow candles depends on factors like the amount of tallow used, the wick type, and the candle size. To ensure your candles last as long as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Candle Size: Choose a larger container for your candles to increase their burn time. A bigger candle will take longer to fully melt, meaning it will last for several uses.
  • Wick Type: Opt for the right wick for your candle’s size. A wick that’s too small may burn too quickly, while a wick that’s too large may cause the candle to burn too fast and unevenly. Proper wick selection ensures an even, long-lasting burn.

By making sure your candle is sized appropriately and using the right wick, you can enjoy your homemade tallow candles for many months to come.

How to store tallow candles properly?

To ensure your tallow candles last as long as possible, store them in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. A basement is an ideal location due to its consistent, cool temperature. If you don’t have a basement, a low shelf in your closet works well too.

Proper storage will help preserve the quality of the tallow and the essential oils, allowing your candles to last for several years. Just make sure they are kept in a stable, cool environment to prevent any melting or degradation over time.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own tallow candles with essential oils is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to enjoy a natural, toxin-free alternative to commercial candles. Not only do they provide a clean, long-lasting burn, but you can also customize the scent to suit your mood or needs. Whether you’re looking to add a relaxing fragrance to your home, create a unique gift, or have a backup for power outages, homemade tallow candles are an excellent addition to your home. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can enjoy a sustainable, personal touch to your candle collection.

How to Remove Temporary Tattoos Safely and Effectively

A common option to explore with body art without making the long-term commitment of a permanent tattoo is with temporary tattoos. They are available in a variety of patterns, hues, and dimensions, and they may endure for a few days or even up to two weeks. Sometimes, however, you may wish to get rid of them before they disappear on their own. In this essay, we’ll talk about how to get rid of temporary tattoos without harming your skin.

Temporary tattoos: What are they?

Temporary tattoos are images that are imprinted with henna paste or ink on specific paper or film. By wiping alcohol or water on the paper or film’s back, they may be spread onto the skin. Unlike permanent tattoos, temporary tattoos are not injected into the skin, and they do not penetrate as deeply into the skin’s layers. They are intended to be a playful, transient kind of body art.

Particularly among kids and teens, they have grown in popularity in recent years. Despite their apparent safety, temporary tattoos should be carefully considered before obtaining one.

In the beginning, it’s important to note that there are two categories of temporary tattoos: those that are done with water and those that are put with glue. When compared to adhesive tattoos, which may include substances like formaldehyde and acrylates that may irritate the skin or trigger allergic responses, water-based temporary tattoos are normally manufactured from vegetable pigments and are said to be safer.

Are Temporary Tattoos Safe?

Most individuals may safely utilize temporary tattoos, on the whole. To make sure they don’t hurt anybody, though, there are a few safety measures that should be performed. To ensure there are no negative reactions, those with sensitive skin, for instance, should test a tiny patch of skin before getting the tattoo.

When using temporary tattoos, it’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This entails avoiding parts of the body that are prone to perspiration or friction since these might cause the tattoo to rub off too soon, as well as ensuring sure the skin is clean and free of oils or lotions before putting the tattoo.

Even though the majority of temporary tattoos are only meant to last a few days at most, some individuals may try to extend their life by using harsh chemicals or wiping the region with an abrasive sponge or cloth. It is preferable to avoid these activities since they may harm the skin and raise the risk of infection.

It’s also important to think about where the temporary tattoo came from. Some inexpensive or fake goods could include low-quality components that might be damaging to the skin. Therefore, it is advised to get temporary tattoos from trustworthy merchants rather than from unidentified or unreliable sources.

How Long Do Temporary Tattoos Last?

The quality of the temporary tattoo, the kind of skin, and the care given before and after application are some of the variables that may affect how long it lasts. Although some high-quality temporary tattoos may last up to two weeks, most of them last between 2 and 7 days.

One important factor in the longevity of a temporary tattoo is the quality of the tattoo itself. Cheap or low-quality tattoos may not adhere well to the skin, resulting in a shorter lifespan. On the other hand, high-quality tattoos made from non-toxic materials and formulated specifically for skin contact tend to last longer.

Skin type also plays a role in how long a temporary tattoo lasts. People with dry skin may find that their tattoos fade more quickly, while those with oily skin or who sweat heavily may experience smudging or fading sooner. Furthermore, tattoos placed on sections of the body that are subject to a lot of friction, such as the hands or feet, may fade more rapidly than tattoos placed on less-used portions of the body.

The longevity of a temporary tattoo may also be impacted by proper care before, during, and after application. Make sure the skin is clean and free of any oils or lotions before putting the tattoo. After the tattoo has been placed, it must fully dry before being exposed to water or clothes. Keeping the tattoo from being excessively scratched or rubbed might also make it stay longer.

how to get temporary tattoos off

Rubbing Alcohol

A typical home item that is included in most medical cabinets is rubbing alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol, which has antibacterial and disinfecting characteristics, is what makes up the transparent liquid. It may be used to treat wounds, sanitize surfaces, and get rid of stains, among other things.

Use rubbing alcohol to erase a temporary tattoo by doing the following:

  • Soak a cotton ball or pad with rubbing alcohol.
  • Place the cotton ball or pad over the temporary tattoo.
  • Hold the cotton ball or pad in place for about 30 seconds.
  • Gently rub the tattoo in a circular motion until it starts to lift off the skin.
  • Continue rubbing until the entire tattoo is removed.

Baby Oil or Olive Oil 

Baby oil is a mineral oil that is commonly used in skincare products, including those designed for infants. It is a clear, odorless oil that is gentle on the skin and can help moisturize and protect the skin’s natural barrier. When used to remove temporary tattoos, baby oil works by breaking down the adhesive used in the tattoo, making it easier to wipe away. Olive oil, on the other hand, is a natural oil that is extracted from the fruit of the olive tree. It is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats and is often used in cooking and skincare products. Olive oil can also be effective at removing temporary tattoos, but it may take longer to break down the adhesive and remove the tattoo.Baby oil or olive oil can also help remove temporary tattoos. Here’s how to do it:

  • Apply a generous amount of baby oil or olive oil to the tattoo.
  • Let the oil sit on the tattoo for about 10 minutes.
  • Gently rub the tattoo in a circular motion until it starts to lift off the skin.
  • Continue rubbing until the entire tattoo is removed.
  • Wash the area with soap and water to remove any remaining oil.

Tape 

The tape method is also great because it doesn’t require any harsh chemicals or scrubs, which can irritate your skin. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and inexpensive.. Here’s how to do it:

  • Place a piece of tape over the temporary tattoo.
  • Press down firmly on the tape.
  • Quickly peel off the tape in one swift motion.
  • The tattoo should stick to the tape and come off with it.

Tips for Removing Temporary Tattoos

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when removing temporary tattoos:

  • Always test a small area of skin before using any new method to remove a temporary tattoo.
  • Be gentle when rubbing or peeling off a temporary tattoo to avoid damaging your skin.
  • If you experience any pain, redness, or swelling while removing a tattoo, stop immediately and seek medical advice.
  • After removing a temporary tattoo, wash the area with soap and water to remove any residue or oil.

Conclusion

Temporary tattoos can be a fun way to express yourself and try out different designs without making a permanent commitment. However, there may come a time when you need to remove them before they naturally fade away. By following the tips and methods outlined in this article, you can safely and effectively remove temporary tattoos without damaging your skin.

FAQs

  1. Will removing a temporary tattoo leave a scar? No, removing a temporary tattoo should not leave a scar as long as you use a safe and gentle method and do not scratch or pick at the area.
  2. Can I use nail polish remover to remove a temporary tattoo? No, nail polish remover should not be used to remove a temporary tattoo as it contains harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.
  3. Can I use soap and water to remove a temporary tattoo? Soap and water alone may not be enough to remove a temporary tattoo, but they can be used to clean the area after using another method.
  4. How long does it take to remove a temporary tattoo? The time it takes to remove a temporary tattoo depends on the size, location, and quality of the tattoo, as well as the method used.
  5. Is it safe to put a temporary tattoo on my face? Temporary tattoos designed for use on the skin are generally safe to use on the face, but you should avoid using them near your eyes or mouth and follow the instructions carefully.