Candles have been used for centuries to provide light and warmth, and nowadays, they are often used as a decorative item as well. With the rise of DIY projects and homemade crafts, more and more people are looking for ways to make their own candles. While there are plenty of options when it comes to candle-making materials, one ingredient that many people wonder about is shortening.
Shortening is a fat that is commonly used in baking and cooking. It is typically made from vegetable oils that have been partially hydrogenated, which gives it a solid consistency at room temperature. But can you use shortening to make a candle? In this article, we will explore the properties of shortening and whether or not it can be used as a substitute for traditional candle-making ingredients.
What is shortening and how is it used in cooking?
Shortening is a type of fat commonly used in baking and cooking. It is typically made from vegetable oils that have been hydrogenated to make them more solid and stable at room temperature. Shortening is a popular ingredient in many baked goods due to its ability to create a light and flaky texture in pastries and pie crusts.
When shortening is used in cooking, it’s often as a substitute for butter or margarine. This is because it has a higher melting point than these other fats, making it more resistant to heat. Shortening is also commonly used in frying because of its high smoke point and ability to maintain its stability at high temperatures. Overall, shortening is a versatile ingredient that has many uses in the kitchen, making it a staple in many households and professional kitchens.
The chemistry behind making candles with shortening
To understand the chemistry behind making candles with shortening, it’s important to first understand the basic components of a candle. Most candles are made of wax, which is a solid at room temperature but melts at high heat. When the wax is heated, it becomes a liquid and its molecules separate, allowing them to mix with air and fuel the flame.
Shortening, on the other hand, is a semi-solid fat made from vegetable oils. Like wax, its molecules are made up of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms. When shortening is heated, its molecules break down and release fatty acids. These fatty acids can then combine with other molecules to create a wax-like substance that can be used to make candles. However, it’s important to note that because shortening is not specifically designed for candle making, it may not burn as cleanly or evenly as traditional candle wax.
Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of shortening candles
When it comes to making candles with shortening, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider. One advantage is that shortening is easily accessible and affordable. It’s also versatile and can be easily mixed with other ingredients to create different types of candles. Shortening candles also tend to have a longer burn time than some other DIY candle options.
However, one significant disadvantage of using shortening to make candles is that it can emit a lot of smoke when it burns. This can make it unsuitable for use in enclosed areas, particularly if you have respiratory issues or allergies. Additionally, shortening candles tend to have a less pleasant scent than other types of candles, which can be a turn-off for those who appreciate the fragrance of scented candles. Ultimately, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding whether shortening is the right choice for your candle-making needs.
How to make your own shortening candle at home
Shortening is a common ingredient in many baking recipes, and it is also used in cooking. What many people may not realize is that it can also be used as a candle wax substitute. Making your own shortening candle is quite simple and requires only a few basic materials.
To make your own shortening candle at home, you will need a jar, a candle wick, a pencil or skewer, and some shortening. First, melt the shortening in a double boiler or a microwave. Once it has melted, pour it into the jar and insert the candle wick. Hold the wick in place with a pencil or skewer until the shortening solidifies. Your homemade shortening candle is ready to use. It’s important to note that while shortening candles are inexpensive and easy to make, they may not burn as long or as clean as traditional candles.
Tips for using shortening in alternative candle-making methods
Shortening can be used to make candles through alternative candle-making methods. One of the ways is to mix it with beeswax or soy wax to create a slower-burning, scented candle. For this method, melt the shortening and wax in a double boiler, add in fragrant oils or essential oils, and pour the mixture into a container with a wick. The result is a candle that can burn for over 10 hours and fills the room with a pleasant aroma.
Another alternative candle-making method that involves shortening is to use it with citrus peels. Cut a citrus fruit in half, scoop out the flesh, and fill the shell with melted shortening. Insert a wick through the center and let the mixture cool. The result is a unique, eco-friendly candle that smells like citrus. Shortening can be versatile in alternative candle-making methods, providing the opportunity for creativity and experimentation with different scents and materials.
The impact of shortening candles on the environment
Using shortening candles has a significant impact on the environment. When shortening candles are burned, they release harmful substances such as acrolein and formaldehyde that can cause respiratory problems. These substances are not only harmful to humans but also to the environment as they can contribute to air pollution. Moreover, the production of shortening itself has a negative impact on the environment. Shortening production requires palm oil, which is linked to deforestation and habitat destruction for wildlife, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Furthermore, shortening candles tend to emit a lot of soot, which can accumulate on walls and ceilings and cause respiratory problems over time. The residue left behind after burning shortening candles is also difficult to clean and can clog up air filters and ventilation systems. Therefore, it is essential to reconsider using shortening candles as an alternative to traditional wax candles to reduce the harmful effects on the environment as well as human health.
Creative and fun ways to decorate your homemade shortening candles
Decorating your homemade shortening candle can be a fun and creative way to make it unique and personalized. There are many ways you can decorate your candle with different materials and techniques. Here are some ideas to get you started:
First, you can use glitter or metallic paint to add some sparkle to your candle. You can mix glitter into the melted shortening before pouring the mixture into the candle mold, or you can wait until the shortening has hardened and then paint it with metallic or glittery paint. You can also decorate your candle with ribbon, lace, or other fabrics. You can tie a ribbon around the candle or glue some lace onto the outside of the mold. You can use different colors and patterns to make your candle look unique and personalized. Whatever you choose to do, have fun with it and get creative!
Final Words
Shortening, although not commonly used for candle making, can be a viable alternative to wax if you are in a pinch. While it may not burn as cleanly as traditional candles, it can still provide a cozy atmosphere and emit a pleasant scent. It is important to note, however, that shortening candles should be used with caution and never left unattended while burning.
In summary, if you are looking for a quick and easy DIY candle option, shortening can be a great solution. It is affordable, versatile, and can be easily customized to fit your preferences. Just be sure to exercise caution and take appropriate safety measures when using shortening as a candle wax substitute.